Ear infections are linked to second-hand smoke because the eustachian tubes in childrens ears are much shorter and closer to the nasal passage than adults. As they grow, the tubes curve upwards, thus making it harder for bacteria to infect the whole tube.

The smoke inhaled brings debris into the nasal passage, and into the eustachian tubes, which at a young age, are straight across. This irritates the tubes, and can cause inflammation, thus increased risk for infection.

Phew!