An ear infection occurs when any of the chambers of the ear are affected by a bacterial or viral infection. It results in ear pain due to the swelling and fluid that accumulates. Usually, outer ear and middle ear infections are more common compared to inner ear infections. Ear infections can be chronic or acute. Acute ear infections are painful but short in duration. In general, children are more prone to infection in the middle ear than adults. Ear infection happens when there is fluid buildup in your middle ear due to any of the following:
Excess mucus
Allergies
Smoking
Infected or inflamed adenoids
Changes in air pressure
Severe colds
Sinus infections

Ear Infection