An ear infection is an inflammation of the middle ear, usually caused by bacteria, that occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum.
The middle ear is a small space behind the ear drum that is supposed to be well ventilated by air that normally passes up from behind the nose, through the Eustachian tube, keeping the middle ear clean and dry.
When there is not enough fresh air ventilating the middle ear, such as when the Eustachian tube is clogged or blocked, the area becomes damp, stagnant, and warm, a perfect breeding ground for germs.
Symptoms of a middle ear infection often start two to seven days after the start of a cold or other upper respiratory infection. They include:
- Ear pain (mild to severe).
- Fever.
- Drainage from the ear that is thick and yellow or bloody. This means the eardrum has probably burst (ruptured). The hole in the eardrum often heals by itself in a few weeks.
- Loss of appetite or vomiting.
- Trouble sleeping.
If you suspect you might be suffering from an ear infection, visit your health care practitioner.
