An ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, is an infection of the middle ear, which is the air-filled space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny vibrating bones of the ear. Ear infections are caused by bacteria or viruses in the middle ear, which often result from another illness such as a cold, flu, or allergy that causes congestion and swelling of the nasal passages, throat, and eustachian tubes. The eustachian tubes are a pair of narrow tubes that run from each middle ear to high in the back of the throat, behind the nasal passages. The throat end of the tubes open and close to regulate air pressure in the middle ear.

Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections because their eustachian tubes are shorter and more horizontal than those of adults, which makes it easier for germs to travel from the throat to the middle ear. Other factors that increase the risk of ear infections include:

• Infant feeding: Babies who drink from a bottle, especially while lying down, tend to have more ear infections than do babies who are breast-fed.
• Seasonal factors: Ear infections are most common during the fall and winter. People with seasonal allergies may have a greater risk of ear infections.
• Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust, animal dander, or food can produce the same effect as a cold or flu, as can smoke, fumes, and other environmental toxins.
• Recurrent ear infections: Some people are prone to having multiple ear infections, which can cause hearing problems and other serious complications.

Symptoms of an ear infection often begin after a cold and include ear pain, fever, fussiness or irritability, rubbing or tugging at an ear, and difficulty sleeping. Ear infections often clear up on their own, and treatment may begin with managing pain and monitoring the problem. Sometimes, antibiotics are used to clear the infection. It is important to see a doctor if your child has a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher, or if you have an ear infection that lasts longer than a few days or is accompanied by severe pain or high fever[[4]](https://www.cdc.gov/an...