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Definition
Inflammation of the
middle ear, usually due to colds or
allergies. The inflammation often leads to
ear infections.
Occurs most often among infants and young
children because their inner ears are less
developed.
Symptoms
| ► Ear pain and discomfort |
► Lose their appetite |
| ► Hearing loss |
► Snoring |
| ► Mouth breathing |
► Fever |
| ► Headache |
► Vomiting |
| ► Diarrhea |
► Children may have trouble sleeping |
Causes
The auditory tube or
Eustachian tube that connects the nose and
throat to the middle ear works by balancing
the pressure surrounding the eardrum. Mucus
from the nose and throat can enter the
middle ear through the Eustachian tube and
lead to fluid build-up, obstruction, and
inflammation.
Other factors that can lead to
otitis media include:
| ► Viruses |
► Bacteria |
| ► Cold or flu |
► Bottle-feeding while lying down |
| ► Exposure to cigarette smoke |
► Allergens that enter through nose and mouth |
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