The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breast-feeding for at least four to six months. If bottle-feeding is used for either formula or breast milk, the caretaker should not allow the infant to lie on her back while feeding. The head should always be elevated so the fluids from the mouth do not flow upward through the eustachian tube into the ears. Pacifiers Pacifiers can also increase the incidence of ear infections. It is not understood whether this is because pacifiers are not properly cleaned, or because the sucking motion causes bacteria to flow upward into the eustachian tube.
Smoking is another factor that raises the risk of ear infections.
Tobacco smoke can irritate the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, causing them to swell. This increases the likelihood of fluid getting trapped in the middle ear. Even fragrances, colognes, and air fresheners can irritate the mucous membranes. Allergies and sensitivities Allergies and sensitivities also contribute to ear infections. One hundred and four children with recurrent ear infections were evaluated for food allergies.