Also called: Ear Infection; Earache Otitis media (oh-TY-tus ME-dee-uh) is an infection of the middle ear. More to Know Bacteria and viruses can cause fluid to build up in the middle ear, leading to infection. This creates pain and pressure. Without treatment, otitis media can cause hearing loss. An ear infection that causes hearing loss may affect speech and language development in a young child. Keep in Mind Most ear infections are painful but clear up without any lasting problems. A doctor can determine whether treatment with antibiotics can help. If a child has a history of many ear infections, a doctor might recommend ear tube surgery. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Hearing Impairment Hearing impairment occurs when there's a problem with or damage to one or more parts of the ear. Find out its causes and what can be done to help correct it. Read More Swimmer's Ear (External Otitis) Swimmer's ear is an infection of the ear canal that can be caused by different types of bacteria or fungi. Find out how to prevent or treat it. Read More Can Chronic Ear Infections Cause Long-Term Hearing Loss? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More What Is an Ear Infection? A middle ear infection happens when germs like bacteria and viruses get in your middle ear and cause trouble. Read this article to find out more. Read More Swimmer's Ear You swam! You splashed! And now you have it: swimmer's ear. Read More First Aid: Earaches An earache requires a visit to the doctor's office. Here's what to do if your child complains of ear pain. Read More Can I Prevent Ear Infections When My Child Swims? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Hearing Evaluation in Children Hearing problems can be overcome if they're caught early, so it's important to get your child's hearing screened early and checked regularly. Read More Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media) Ear infections are common among kids and, often, painful. Find out what causes them and how they're treated. Read More Ear Tube Surgery Many kids get middle ear infections (otitis media). Doctors may suggest ear tube surgery for those with multiple infections or a hearing loss or speech delay. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.