The ear comprises the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. The middle ear is the part most likely to become infected and is one of the most common childhood illnesses. The middle ear is the area just behind the eardrum and connects to the nose through tiny passages called eustachian tubes.

When fluid from a cold or other viral infection builds up in the middle ear, it can cause irritation and inflammation. Children’s passages are narrower than those of adults and less able to clear the fluid effectively, children are more likely to develop ear infections.