This often occurs in the setting of a cold where a virus or bacteria infects the space behind the ear drum causing a build-up ...

Although this is, as you say, extremely scary, it is in itself not dangerous and is nature's way of relieving pressure from the build up of pus behind the ear drum. This in turn relieves the pain ...

What is a middle ear infection? When bacteria or a virus enters the open area behind the eardrum, an infection of the middle ear can occur. This condition is also known as acute otitis media ...