Medically reviewed by Benjamin F. Asher, MD Serous otitis media (SOM) is when the eustachian tube does not drain and causes fluid to build up in the middle ear space. The fluid build-up can cause ...

Tear in the eardrum: Prolonged pressure from the eardrum fluid can cause a eardrum tear. This may be seen in about 5% to 10% of children, which may require surgery if it does not heal on its own.

Hansa Bhargava, MD Earaches can be really painful and it's because the fluid behind the eardrum can actually cause pressure on the eardrum that causes a piercing pain. If you've ever sat on flight ...

Tear in the eardrum: Prolonged pressure from the eardrum fluid can cause a eardrum tear. This may be seen in about 5% to 10% of children, which may require surgery if it does not heal on its own.