There are three common types of ear infections:

Otitis Media

Otitis media is a type of ear infection or inflammation of the middle ear. This inflammation often begins when infections that cause sore throats, colds, or other respiratory or breathing problems spread to the middle ear. These can be viral or bacterial infections. There are two main types of otitis media. The first type is called acute otitis media (AOM). The second type is called otitis media with effusion (fluid), or OME.

Otitis media is also commonly referred to as:

• Middle ear infection
• Inner ear infection
• Ear infection.

Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear)

Otitis externa is an inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal. Along with otitis media, external otitis is one of the two human conditions commonly called "earache". Inflammation of the skin of the ear canal is the essence of this disorder. The inflammation can be secondary to dermatitis (eczema) only, with no microbial infection, or it can be caused by active bacterial or fungal infection.

Otitis Interna

Otitis interna (Internal otitis) is an inflammation of the inner ear and is usually considered synonymous with labyrinthitis. Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear that typically results in severe vertigo lasting for one or more days. Its cause is rarely identified, but it is thought most commonly to derive from a viral inflammation of the vestibular labyrinth (the part of the inner ear responsible for balance).