Tubes for ear infections


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Tubes for ear infections


Fluid buildup in the middle ear

Illustration of fluid buildup in the middle ear

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A cold or some other upper respiratory infection can cause the eustachian tubes to swell, blocking the normal drainage from the middle ear. The fluid buildup can lower your or your child's ability to hear, and the warm, moist environment makes it easy for bacteria and viruses to grow, causing an ear infection.

Credits


Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated February 28, 2007

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