Fluid in the ear is a common term used for the infection or effusions into the ear. a Eustachian tube dysfunction for a long period of time can cause fluid collection within the ear, inside the ear, infection spreading from the nose to the ear can have a similar cause fluid collection within the ear. The difference being in the former, there will be a blocked hearing, a drop in hearing, but rarely ever any pain. In case of infections variably, the fluid will also be associated with increase in pressure over the ear drum there can be significant pain. Rarely the patients can complain of fullness and drop in hearing, giddiness in some occasions.
source
