Ear infections are very common among toddlers, due to their immature immune systems. According to Medline Plus, there are different types of ear infections. However, the most common of these is otitis media or the inflammation of the middle ear due to infection. Ear infections in toddlers usually occur due to a blocked eustachian tube. Medline Plus also says that the most common causes of ear infections in children are allergies and colds, tobacco smoke and other environmental irritants, and teething or other factors.
Allergies and Infections
According to Medline Plus, allergies are a cause of ear infection in young children. Allergies cause an inflammation in the airways. This may lead to infections in the ears. Allergies can also cause conditions such as asthma and sinustitis, which also can cause infections in the ears. Medline Plus says that children who attend daycare are likely to get more colds and other infections. Since they are constantly in contact with other small children and sharing and touching the same things, infections are more likely to spread.
Tobacco Smoke and Other Environmental Irritants
According to Medline Plus, tobacco smoke is another cause of ear infections in young children. If they are repeatedly exposed to cigarette smoke, they are more likely to get problems such as runny noses and wheezing. This form of exposure to cigarette smoking is referred to as passive smoking. Exposure to chemicals present in the environment, such as asbestos and high air pollution levels are also causes of ear infections in young children.
Teething or Other Factors
According to Medline Plus, teething is another cause of ear infections. Medline Plus says that during teething excess mucus and saliva are produced. This can cause ear infections in toddlers. Maryland Medical Center says that bottle-fed babies are at a higher risk of getting ear infections. Breast-fed babies are more resistant to ear infections. Medline Plus goes on to say that drinking from a bottle while lying on the back is another likely cause of ear infections in children. Use of pacifiers is another factor that increases the risk of ear infections. This is because sucking increases the production of saliva. This allows the bacteria to travel up from the eustachian tubes to the middle ear.
