Cold and ear infection

A cold  can lead to an ear infection. During an infection , the eustachian tubes which are tubs that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat can become blocked. This can trap fluid and bacteria in the middle ear  and create a perfect environment for an infection.

Babies , toddlers  and preschoolers are susceptible to fluid buildup because the eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower and more horizontal  than  those of older children.

As children grow , the eustachian tubes grows longer and becomes more vertical . This allows the fluid to drain more  easily.

The fluid filled ear creates a conducive environment for bacteria to multiply. This may result in pain and swelling in and around the baby’s ear drum.

NOTE

It is  common for more than 80%  of children to have ear infection before the age of 3.