👉 Hearing infection, or otitis media, is an inflammation of the middle ear that occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, often due to a blockage in the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This blockage can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, such as those from the common cold, flu, or strep throat. When bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, they cause swelling and fluid accumulation, leading to pressure buildup and potential damage to the eardrum or inner ear structures. Symptoms include ear pain, fever, hearing loss, and sometimes a feeling of fullness in the ear. Treatment typically involves antibiotics for bacterial infections, pain relievers, and sometimes ear tubes to drain fluid and prevent recurrence.
