Causes of otitis media
Usually a middle ear infection, otitis, ear infection or otitis media is caused by a malfunction in the Eustachian tube; It is an auditory canal that connects the middle ear to the throat.
It equalizes the pressure between the outer and middle ear, and therefore any defect in the work of this channel will negatively affect the fluid leaching from the middle ear and accumulate behind the eardrum, and this in turn creates an environment suitable for the growth of bacteria and viruses in the ear, causing acute otitis media.
It is caused by Streptococcus Pneumoniae and Haemophilus Influenzae bacteria in most cases, while viral infection accounts for the remainder.
Most types of bacteria that cause middle ear infections are similar to those that cause many cases of sinusitis, pneumonia, and other forms of respiratory infection.
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In fact, the Eustachian tube may malfunction for one of the following reasons: Colds or allergies that cause swelling and congestion in the lining of the nose, throat, and ear canal. Malformation of the Eustachian tube. The narrowing of the auditory canal and its horizontal tilt
It is usually in children that it is difficult to filter fluids from them, and the chance of them collecting in the duct increases. Germs that grow in the nose or sinus chambers enter the auditory canal and multiply there. Another reason children are more prone to otitis media is the nature of adenoids, which are larger than adults.
The nasal parenchyma consists mainly of infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes and is located behind the upper part of the throat near the Eustachian tube, and due to this proximity to the auditory canal, the enlargement of these appendages may block the entrance to the canal
The formation of infection in the nasal appendix may cause bacteria to spread through the lining of the auditory canal or the passages connecting it with the appendix, and thus infection there also and the subsequent swelling of the cells lining the middle ear and blockage in the auditory canal
As a result of the accumulation of white blood cells coming through the bloodstream to fight bacteria. The fight between bacteria and white fighting cells ends with the formation of pus, a whitish-yellow substance that fills the middle ear in case of infection.
Risk factors for otitis media
The chance of developing otitis media is increased by the presence of one or more of the following factors: Age: Children in the 6-month to 2-year-old age group are more likely to have ear infections because they have an underdeveloped immune system.
In addition to all the reasons mentioned earlier, such as the size and composition of the Eustachian tube and others. Group care for children: This means children who are cared for in groups and are exposed to many germs, and this makes them more susceptible to colds and ear infections compared to children who are cared for at home.
Breastfeeding method: Drinking milk from a bottle, especially while lying down, increases the risk of ear infection, compared to a baby who takes milk from his mother while breastfeeding. Seasonal factors: Ear infections occur frequently during winter and fall, and are more common in those who suffer from seasonal allergies such as pollen allergy.
The nature of the surrounding air: a person is constantly exposed to cigarette smoke or high levels of air pollution. Cleft Palate: This is because the structure of the bones and muscles in a child with a cleft palate differs from that of a healthy child, and this makes it difficult for fluid to drain from the auditory canal.
Race: Hispanic and Native American children are more likely to have ear infections than children of other races. Having a previous history of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Down's Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes a delay in a child's learning abilities and some physical changes. males.
Having a family history of ear infection. Weakened immune system or chronic respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis and asthma. Upper Respiratory Tract Infections. Use of a pacifier for children
Prevention of otitis media
There are many tips that can be followed to prevent otitis media, and they can be referred to as follows: Teaching the child how to wash hands well and constantly while not sharing food and drink with other children to prevent colds and other diseases.
It is also advisable to teach the child how to sneeze or cough into the palm of his arm. Reducing the amount of time the child spends in group care homes or ensuring that he is in a small group of children
It is also preferable that the child not go to school or kindergarten if he is sick. Keep the child as far as possible from passive (forced) smoking; Avoid smoking indoors or sitting in public places where smoking is prohibited.