Why are infants and young children prone to otitis media?

Infants and young children are prone to otitis media. Common contributing factors include the unique structure of the Eustachian tube, immature immune system, susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infections, improper feeding posture, and inadequate ear care. The details are as follows:

1. Unique Eustachian tube structure: In infants and young children, the Eustachian tube is shorter, wider, and more horizontally oriented, with a lower connection to the nasopharynx. This anatomy allows bacteria and secretions from the nose or throat to easily travel through the Eustachian tube into the middle ear cavity, causing inflammation. This physiological feature makes infants more susceptible to middle ear infections than adults.

2. Immature immune system: The immune system in infants is not fully developed, resulting in weaker resistance and poor defense against bacteria and viruses. Once exposed to pathogens, they are more likely to develop infections, which can easily spread to the middle ear, increasing the risk of otitis media.

3. Susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infections: Infants have delicate respiratory tracts and are easily affected by external irritants, leading to colds, rhinitis, and other upper respiratory infections. These conditions cause nasal and pharyngeal mucosal congestion, swelling, and increased secretions, which may block the Eustachian tube, disrupt pressure balance in the middle ear, and trigger otitis media.

4. Improper feeding posture: Feeding an infant while lying flat increases the risk of milk flowing back into the nasopharynx and then entering the middle ear via the Eustachian tube. Nutrients in the milk can promote bacterial growth, raising the risk of middle ear infection. The correct feeding position should keep the infant's head slightly higher than the body.

5. Inadequate ear care: The skin in an infant’s ear is delicate. If parents clean too vigorously or use sharp objects, the outer ear canal may be injured, leading to infection. Severe infections can spread to the middle ear and cause otitis media. Additionally, water entering the ear during bathing that is not promptly dried can also increase the risk of infection.

In daily care, ensure infants maintain clear airways, avoid feeding while lying flat, and practice proper ear cleaning and warmth protection. If an infant shows persistent crying, frequent ear pulling, or signs of hearing dullness, seek medical attention promptly to rule out otitis media.