Inflammation of the middle or inner ear is usually the main cause of ear ache, though there are many forms of ear ache. One common inflammatory condition of the middle ear is Otitis Media. This inflammation is caused by an infection on the middle ear. It can occur in one or both ears. Statistical data shows that otitis media is the most frequent diagnosis affecting children who visit pediatricians.

The seriousness of ear infections cause severe ear ache. If the infection is not arrested, this may develop to hearing loss. Ear infections can also be serious if they spread to the other systems inside the head.

When the Eustachian tube is blocked during a cold, an allergic reaction, or an upper respiratory tract infection, this may lead to the accumulation of pus and mucus at the back of the ear drum. The presence of bacteria and virus will lead to infection. This infection is called otitis media. This causes an uncomfortable ear ache, plus swelling and redness. If the fluids remain in the middle ear, a condition called serous otitis media occurs. This condition becomes chronic and can last a long time, sometimes lasting months or years. This results in several subsequent infections and may cause more ear aches and hearing difficulties.