Ear infections, or otitis media, are a common medical issue affecting both children and adults. In adults, these infections are typically caused by bacteria or viruses, often as a secondary complication of another illness like a cold, flu, or allergies. Such infections can lead to the inflammation of the eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the throat, potentially causing fluid buildup and infection in the middle ear.

Water entering the ear canal can exacerbate the situation by introducing bacteria into the middle ear. Symptoms of an ear infection may include purulent drainage from the ear, which can appear as white, green, or yellow pus. Fortunately, this type of ear infection can often be effectively treated with antibiotic eardrops.

It’s advisable to avoid flying when experiencing a cold, flu, or nasal allergies, as these conditions can increase the risk of developing an ear infection. Regular hand washing and avoiding contact with individuals who have the flu can also help in prevention. While many believe that the flu is simply a severe cold, it’s actually a more serious condition that can lead to complications like ear infections.

Chronic otitis media, a long-term problem with the middle ear, can manifest as a non-healing hole in the eardrum or a persistent middle-ear infection. This condition can lead to symptoms such as hearing loss and may require surgical intervention if severe. The middle ear, a small bony chamber, contains three tiny bones – the malleus, incus, and stapes, all covered by the eardrum.

The three most common bacteria responsible for middle ear infections are Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Vaccination against the flu can also reduce the risk of ear infections, as about 40% of children under three years of age develop an ear infection with the flu.

Ear infections are more common during the cooler months, as winter ailments like colds, flu, allergies, and other upper respiratory issues can lead to ear infections due to fluid buildup. An acute ear infection, or acute otitis media, is a common condition that causes inflammation behind the eardrum, often resulting from congestion and swelling of the nasal passages, throat, and Eustachian tubes.

For more information on ear infections and their treatment, visit the following resources:
Ohio State Medical Center,
Stanford Otology and Neurotology,
Harvard Health.