<s>[INST] Why do children have more ear infections than adults? [/INST] Eustachian tubes are narrow channels inside your ears that allow drainage to the back of the nose and prevent fluid in the middle ear from building up. Children have eustachian tubes that are shorter, narrower and straighter than those of adults. These tubes can become inflamed or irritated, and then they don't drain appropriately. This results in middle ear fluid and potential ear infections. Source: MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM. Link: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/questions-about-earaches-and-ear-infections. Field: Otolaryngology. Disease: Ear Infection </s>