What causes otitis media?

What causes otitis media?

Jason Hamilton (Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon) gives expert video advice on: What is an ear infection?; What ear infection symptoms do children and teens experience?; What activities should I avoid if I have an ear infection? and more...

Otitis media is usually caused by bacteria that travels into the middle ear through the Eustachian tube. It can also be caused by Eustachian tube blockage where a vacuum is formed in the middle ear and fluid leaks out from the surrounding tissues. There's always a low level of bacteria throughout our body, but in a fluid environment the bacteria tend to grow and cause an infection in the middle ear.