Ear infections can occur in the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny vibrating bones of the ear. This can cause pain that could be mild or severe. Mayo Clinic Health System provides answers to common questions about this condition. What causes ear infections? Middle ear infections, which are the most common, are often linked to other illnesses like colds, flu, or allergies that cause congestion and swelling of the nasal passages and eustachian tubes. When these tubes are swollen or blocked, fluids can build up in the middle ear and cause an infection.

Researchers at the University of Helsinki found that acute coronary syndrome is 2.7 times more common among people with infections at the tip of a tooth root, even if they have no tooth symptoms. This syndrome is a term for sudden blockage in the blood supply to the heart, with symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.

Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to serious health problems, including brain or heart infections. Research shows that older adults are keeping their teeth longer, which has benefits but also increases the risk of dental issues. Harvard Health discusses these hidden dental dangers.

Ear infections are very common in children, especially those younger than 2. Parents should watch for symptoms like fever, irritability, and ear pain. While ear infections are not contagious, the colds that often lead to them are. RUSH offers guidance on spotting ear infection signs.

Chronic ear infections can cause severe damage and conductive hearing loss if left untreated. These infections, different from swimmer’s ear, can require surgery in severe cases. The University of Utah Health explains more about chronic ear infections and their implications.

Finally, middle ear infections in adults can lead to symptoms like ear pain, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, fluid drainage, fever, and hearing loss. University of Rochester Medical Center provides detailed information on this topic.