Ear infections are the most common reason for pediatric visits. An ear infection is an inflammation of the middle and inner ear causing fluid-filled spaces that in turn cause hearing loss, shaking of the head or body, pain, and fullness or ringing in the ears. In fact, yakima ear infection is caused by a bacterial infection in the Eustachian tube and middle ear as a result of respiratory infections, such as colds or influenza.
We will now see into the main causes of ear infections.
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Allergies
Ear infections are most commonly caused by allergies. Allergies cause inflammation and swelling in the middle ear, which pushes bacteria and fluid to the outer ear. Because of allergies, fluid from the middle ear can also go to the outer ear and cause congestion, pain, and infection.
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Upper respiratory infections
Upper respiratory infections, such as colds or flu, can cause ear infections. These infections can block the Eustachian tube and cause fluid to build up in the middle and outer ears, an ideal environment for bacterial growth. This can cause fullness or pressure in your ears that can lead to ear infections.
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Sinusitis
Sinusitis also causes ear infections. This is because the sinus lining creates a barrier to bacteria and fluid in the middle ear, which results in an infection. Sinusitis can also cause the nasal passages or throat to become blocked, causing water to build up in the ears. All of this can cause a fullness or pressure in the ears that can cause an ear infection.
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Excess mucus
Excess mucus from allergies, sinusitis, or another infection in the nose can get into the ears. This can cause fluid to build up in the ears and then create a perfect environment for bacterial growth, leading to an ear infection.
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Swollen adenoids
Swollen adenoids can also cause fluid buildup in the middle ear, leading to an ear infection. This occurs as a result of increased mucus production and swelling of the adenoids. To treat this case, an ENT doctor would have to remove the adenoids to drain excess fluid from the middle ear.
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Air pressure changes
Air pressure changes can also cause fluid to build up in the middle ear, leading to an ear infection. This often occurs when your plane takes off or lands, leading fluid to build up in your middle ear. That in turn can cause an ear infection.