What Is an Ear Infection?
7. Risk Factors
People of all ages can develop an ear infection, but children under 2 years old are most prone. This is because of weaker immune systems, and because smaller tubes make blockages more likely. Another reason is that children tend to stay close together in groups at nurseries and other care centers.
People born with a cleft palate are also more prone to ear infections, as are people of Alaskan native heritage. Being exposed to poor air quality is another factor, and this includes being in rooms with a lot of cigarette and cigar smoke. People with allergies like hay fever are also more prone to ear infections.
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