![]() Testing for ear infection is a relatively simple procedure and a diagnosis can often be made based on symptoms alone. Doctors will typically use a device called an otoscope. Share on Pinterest There are a number of ways to diagnose ear infections. These make children more likely to contract ear infections. Children have relatively large adenoids that are more active than those of adults. ![]() The adenoids are close to the openings of the eustachian tubes, and if they swell, they can cause the tubes to close. This can lead to infection and inflammation of the eustachian tubes and middle ear. The adenoids can sometimes trap bacteria, however. They react to passing bacteria and viruses and play a part in immune system activity. The adenoids are pads of tissue located at the back of the nasal cavity. This means that fluid is more likely to collect in the tubes rather than drain away, increasing the risk of an ear infection. The eustachian tubes of young children are smaller and more horizontal than in older children and adults. Infection can occur if this fluid becomes infected bacterially. The ends of these tubes open and close to regulate air pressure in the middle ear, resupply air to this area, and drain normal secretions.Ī respiratory infection or allergy can block the eustachian tubes, causing a buildup of fluids in the middle ear. The eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. The initial illness will also inflame the nasal passages, throat, and eustachian tubes. These increase mucus in the sinuses, and lead to the slow clearance of fluid by the eustachian tubes. They protect against infection, but generally have little purpose beyond childhood.An ear infection often begins with a cold, flu, or allergic response. These are made up of lymph tissue and are located at the back and sides of the mouth. This is located above the larynx and works with the larynx and vocal cords to push the food into the esophagus, therefore keeping food from entering the windpipe. The larynx also serves as a passageway to the trachea (windpipe to the lung).Įpiglottis. This houses the vocal cords and is crucial to speech and breathing. The throat is a ring-like muscular tube that acts as the passageway for air, food, and liquid. Four pairs of air-filled cavities that are also lined with mucous membranes. Passages that are lined with mucous membranes and tiny hairs (cilia) that help to filter the air. The cartilage also gives shape and support to the outer part of the nose. This is made up primarily of cartilage and bone and covered by mucous membranes. These are two chambers divided by the septum. A triangular-shaped projection in the center of the face. The nose is the organ of smell and is part of the peripheral nervous system. The eustachian tube is lined with mucous, just like the inside of the nose and throat.Ĭochlea. Having the same pressure allows for the proper transfer of sound waves. The eustachian tube helps to equalize the pressure in the middle ear. A canal that links the middle ear with the back of the nose. These are the 3 small bones that are connected and transmit the sound waves to the inner ear. Middle ear (tympanic cavity), consisting of: The tympanic membrane divides the external ear from the middle ear. Tympanic membrane (also called the eardrum). This is the tube that connects the outer ear to the inside or middle ear. This is the outside part of the ear.Įxternal auditory canal or tube. The ear is the organ of hearing and balance.
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