The average rate of recurrent ear infection was around 1.5 per year in the ear-tube group, and 1.7 in the comparison group. Infections declined in the second year in both groups.

The middle ear can fill up with fluid, exacerbating the problem. This condition is called otitis media with effusion (fluid) and may be misdiagnosed as acute otitis media due to infection.

Dr. Connor notes that symptoms for an internal ear infection include pain, fluid drainage and a sense of fullness or pressure in the ear. A common cold, flu, viral infections, allergies or sinus ...