What is a common cause of acute otitis media?

Acute otitis media is frequently caused by upper respiratory infections, which are often viral in origin. When a child or an adult develops an upper respiratory infection, such as the common cold, the inflammation and congestion can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction. This dysfunction inhibits proper drainage of fluid from the middle ear, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Such infections can give rise to fluid buildup behind the eardrum, ultimately leading to the symptoms of acute otitis media, such as ear pain, fever, and irritability in children.

Unlike upper respiratory infections, other options like allergies may contribute to Eustachian tube dysfunction but are not direct causes of acute otitis media. Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps could also affect sinonasal anatomy and contribute to ear problems indirectly, but they are not the primary causes of acute inflammation and infection in the middle ear.