Causes of Ear Infections
Ear infections are caused when the bacteria make their way to the middle ear through the Eustachian tube and produce infection. This causes swelling of the middle ear and blockage of the Eustachian tube. The white blood cells are unable to fight infection and often die due to the blockage, leading to the formation of pus (thick yellowish-white fluid). Ear infections are commonly seen in winter season and can spread among children.1 Children are more prone for ear infections, as their Eustachian tube is small and can get easily blocked. The following are some of the causes, which lead to the blockage of the Eustachian tube or the upper airways.
- Irritants or tobacco smoke.
- Excess mucus or saliva produced during teething.
- Infected adenoids.
- Allergies.
- Cold and sinusitis.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: November 29, 2009
-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Articles in Ear Infections