Ear infections are considered the most common childhood problem, as most children experience at least one ear infection before they turn two years old, according to Kidshealth.org. An ear infection occurs when bacteria, germs or a virus gets into the middle ear, causing build up of fluid or puss. The ear becomes inflamed, which causes pain, a fever and head congestion. Children are more prone to ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are much smaller than those of adults, according to Dr. Greene. Some of the most common causes of ear infections in children are Eustachian tube issues, the common cold and allergies.
Eustachian Tube Issues
The Baby Center states that babies are more prone to develop ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are only about a half an inch long. A child's tubes under the age of three are commonly horizontal, making it difficult for the fluid normally found in the ears to drain. Some of the most common causes of ear infections in children are Eustachian tube issues, the common cold and allergies. By the time a child grows into an adult her tubes triple in size and become vertical, encouraging proper drainage.
Common Cold
Kidshealth.org says that the common cold can cause an ear infection in young children. The common cold is a viral infection that causes sneezing, coughing and nasal congestion, according to the Mayo Clinic. The common cold is one of over 200 different viruses that a child may obtain by interacting with other people. The Mayo Clinic says the best way to prevent the common cold is to wash the child's hands as often as possible, keep his hands away from his mouth and maintain proper hygiene. There is no cure for the common cold, but a pediatrician may recommend the use of over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms. Typical complications in children from the common cold are sinus and ear infections.
Allergies
A child with allergies is more likely to develop an ear infection, according to Dr. Greene. With more than 50 million Americans suffering from allergies, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) says that allergies first show themselves in childhood. The ACAAI says the most common allergy condition in children is allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Allergic rhinitis causes severe nasal congestion, a runny nose and nasal inflammation. The excessive amount of pressure and fluid in the sinuses can affect the inner and middle ear by placing pressure and emptying fluid into the ears.
