There are several factors that increase the risk of otitis media:
Children: In general, children have more ear infections than adults. In children, the Eustachian tube is much smaller than in adults and therefore may become more easily dysfunctional (“closes up”).
Exposure: The more a child is exposed to other children such as in a day care the bigger the risk of exposure to the bacteria that cause ear infections.
Smoking and Secondhand Smoke: Research has proven that even second-hand smoke results in an increase in otitis media in children of smoking parents.
Enlarged Adenoids: The adenoids are like tonsils that are located behind the nose where the opening of the Eustachian tube is located. If the adenoids become too large they may block the Eustachian tube or harbor infection. The adenoids are like tonsils that are located behind the nose where the opening of the Eustachian tube is located. If the adenoids become too large they may block the Eustachian tube or harbor infection.