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Health Conditions
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Otitis Media
What causes it?
Scientists report that most cases of otitis media are caused by bacteria. A small percentage of otitis media cases are caused by a combination of both a virus and bacteria, and even fewer by a virus alone. Otitis media develops when there is a build-up of fluid in the middle ear cavity. The eustachian tube, a key element in the inner ear connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and normally balances pressure in the ear. It also pushes mucus and debris away from the middle ear. When the eustachian tube is blocked with mucus, air cannot flow through the ear, fluid accumulates and bacteria can grow.
An ear infection can also result from damage to the eustachian tube. If the tube is damaged and cannot effectively clear the mucus and debris, bacteria can travel to the middle ear and produce an infection. Infection causes the lining of the middle ear to swell, blocking the body's bacteria-fighting cells from traveling to the infected area to fight the infection.
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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.
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What causes it?
