NEW: Express access to COVID-19 vaccine record is now available.
Close

The MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network showcases trusted, easy-to-use health and wellness resources from Alberta Health Services and Alberta-based partner organizations. The network is led by MyHealth.Alberta.ca, Alberta’s source for consumer health information. Our partners are committed to helping Albertans better manage their health and wellbeing. Health experts across Alberta make sure that the information on these sites is accurate and up-to-date. Our partners include

Ready or Not AlbertaHealthy Parents Healthy ChildrenTeaching Sexual HealthAlberta QuitsCancer Care Alberta
VISIT MYHEALTH.ALBERTA.CA
MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
Health Information and Tools > Tests & Treatments >  Ear infection (otitis media): Fast facts
Print the content on this page Decrease the font size of content Increase the font size of content

Main Content

Top of the page

Ear infection (otitis media): Fast facts

Ear infection (otitis media): Fast facts (00:00:34)
Video Transcript

Otitis media is an ear infection behind the eardrum in the middle ear.

It can be caused by a virus or bacteria.

An ear infection usually starts with a cold.

A cold can cause swelling in the small tube that connects each ear to the throat.

These two tubes are called eustachian tubes.

Swelling can block the tube and trap fluid inside the ear.

This makes it a perfect place for bacteria or viruses to grow and cause an infection.

Ear infections happen mostly to young children.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions. Image is used for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted is a model.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions. Image is used for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted is a model.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

© 2025 Government of Alberta.
About MyHealth.Alberta.ca | Contact Us
Terms & Conditions  |  Accessibility   |  Privacy
MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
​