Ear infections, or acute otitis media, are common occurrences in infants and toddlers between three months and three years old. Infants are more vulnerable to ear infections because they have undeveloped immune systems, as described by the Cleveland Clinic. Most ear infections occur due to blockages and trapped fluids in the passageways of the ears that trap bacteria. Viruses may also cause ear infections in babies. Symptoms include crying, a low fever, pain, tugging at the ear, redness and fluid from the ear. The Cleveland Clinic notes that pediatricians usually recommend antibiotics, as well as pain relievers, for ear infections in infants.
Blocked Eustachian Tubes
The eustachian tube is the passageway that connects the middle ear to the nose and throat. In infants and young children, this tube is shorter and more horizontal than in adults. This makes it easier for the eustachian tubes to become blocked by trapped fluid in the middle ear, causing the growth of bacteria and an infection.
Pressure Build-up
Infants are more susceptible to pressure build-up in the middle ear because of the immature eustachian tube anatomy traps fluids in the ear, which then provides a breeding ground for bacterial growth. Pressure is increased in the ear by a sudden increase in air pressure such as driving up to an area of high altitude, and taking off or descending in an airplane. Increased pressure in an infant’s middle ear is also caused by drinking from a bottle while lying flat on the back, and by the use of a pacifier or soother. The results of a study in the Netherlands, published in "Family Practice" in 2008 showed that the incidence of ear infection was 33 percent lower in babies that did not use a pacifier.
Infections
MayoClinic.com notes that infants are more susceptible to infections because they have immature immune systems. Viral infections, such as colds and flus, as well as respiratory infections, can cause swelling and fluid build-up in the middle ear. Bacteria from mucus in the nose, sinuses and throat can also travel to the ears. Infections may also cause swelling of the adenoids in the upper back throat. Enlarged adenoids can block the eustachian tubes, restricting fluid drainage and causing an ear infection.
