Most ear infections form in the middle ear. The
eustachian tube carries fluid from the middle ear to the throat. Sometimes
during a cold, the eustachian tube becomes swollen and fluid is trapped in the
middle ear. Bacteria or viruses can grow in this fluid and form an ear
infection.
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By
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Healthwise Staff |
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Primary Medical Reviewer
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Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics |
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Specialist Medical Reviewer
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Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology |
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Last Revised
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September 10, 2012 |