Causes of otitis media

Otitis media usually starts when the Eustachian tube is blocked and germs reach the middle ear.

Common causes

• Colds and respiratory infections: swelling blocks the Eustachian tube and traps fluid
• Bacteria and viruses: such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and common cold viruses
• Enlarged adenoids: can block or infect the tube opening
• Allergies and sinus problems: cause swelling and mucus
• Cleft palate and some genetic conditions: affect tube function

Risk factors in children

• Age between 6 months and 3 years
• Not being breastfed in infancy
• Bottle feeding while lying flat
• Exposure to tobacco smoke or heavy air pollution
• Day care attendance and siblings with colds
• Not being fully vaccinated, including pneumococcal and Hib vaccines
• Family history of ear infections

Causes in adults

Colds, allergies, smoking, sinus infection and sudden pressure change from flying or diving.

Chronic otitis media

May follow repeated infection, a perforated eardrum, water entering through a hole in the drum, or poor tube function.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda attributes ear problems to aggravated Kapha and Pitta, cold and heavy foods and exposure to cold wind. This is an interpretive view and not a proven mechanism.

See a doctor if your child has more than three infections in six months, or four in a year.

When to get help

See a doctor or ENT clinic if ear pain, discharge or hearing change does not settle in a couple of days, if infections keep coming back, or if you are unsure about any medicine or drop. Early assessment protects hearing and helps avoid unnecessary treatment.

Remember

Vaccination, avoiding smoke exposure and feeding babies upright reduce the risk.