Middle ear infections, also known as otitis media, are a common ear condition that can cause pain, hearing loss, and discomfort. While they are more frequent in children, adults can also develop middle ear infections, leading to complications if left untreated.

In this blog, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of middle ear infections to help you safeguard your hearing health.

Symptoms of Middle Ear Infection

A middle ear infection occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, leading to inflammation. The most common symptoms include:

✔ Ear pain – Often described as throbbing or sharp pain in the affected ear.

Also Read: What Could a Sharp Pain in the Ear Mean?

✔ Fever – Mild to high fever due to the body’s response to infection.

✔ Pressure or fullness in the ear – A blocked feeling in the ear caused by fluid accumulation.

✔ Hearing difficulty – Sounds may seem muffled due to the blockage and inflammation.

✔ Pus or fluid discharge – In severe cases, pus may drain from the ear if the eardrum perforates.

✔ Nausea and vomiting – Some people experience dizziness and nausea due to the infection affecting the balance system in the ear.
Middle Ear Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention | Aanvii Hearing

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to prevent complications like long-term hearing loss.

How Are Middle Ear Infections Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a middle ear infection requires a thorough examination by a healthcare professional. A general practitioner (GP), ENT specialist, or audiologist will assess your symptoms and use a special instrument called an otoscope to examine your ear.

Signs of a Middle Ear Infection Include:

  • Red and inflamed eardrum – A key indicator of infection.
  • Bulging eardrum – Due to fluid or pus buildup behind the eardrum.
  • Perforated eardrum – In severe cases, the eardrum may rupture, leading to fluid drainage.

Your doctor will determine whether the infection is bacterial or viral, which will help guide the treatment approach.

Treatment for Middle Ear Infections

Most middle ear infections resolve within two to four weeks, but treatment can help relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Common Treatment Options:

✔ Pain relief – Over-the-counter or prescription ear drops and pain relievers can ease discomfort.

✔ Antibiotics – If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed. However, many infections are viral and do not require antibiotics.

✔ Monitoring – In mild cases, your doctor may recommend waiting and observing symptoms before prescribing medication.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and avoid self-medicating, as unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to resistance.

How to Prevent Middle Ear Infections in Adults

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding painful ear infections. Follow these simple tips to protect your ears:

✅ Limit Moisture in the Ears

Keep ears dry during infections—avoid swimming or getting water in the ears until your doctor gives the green light.

Use a shower cap or cotton balls with petroleum jelly to keep water out while bathing.

✅ Avoid Smoking and Second-hand Smoke

Smoking can increase the risk of ear infections. Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke to keep your ears healthy.

✅ Be Cautious with Ear Cleaning

Do not use cotton swabs or objects that push wax deeper into the ear canal.

If you have excessive earwax buildup, consult an audiologist for safe ear cleaning methods.

Also Read: How Does Wax Build-Up Affect Hearing?

Middle Ear Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention | Aanvii Hearing

✅ Use Heat Therapy for Pain Relief

A warm compress (hot water bottle wrapped in a towel) or a hairdryer on a low setting directed at the ear can provide relief from discomfort.

When to See a Doctor

Most middle ear infections improve within a few days, but seek medical help if:

  • Symptoms persist for more than 48 hours.
  • You experience severe ear pain or dizziness.
  • Pus or fluid drains from your ear.
  • Your hearing worsens significantly.

Middle Ear Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention | Aanvii Hearing

Timely treatment can prevent complications such as long-term hearing loss or chronic infections.

Middle ear infections can be painful and disruptive, but with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and preventive care, you can protect your ears and hearing. If you’re experiencing ear pain, difficulty hearing, or recurrent infections, consult a hearing specialist for a thorough evaluation.

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Concerned about your hearing? Visit Aanvii Hearing for expert guidance, professional hearing checks, and personalised ear care solutions. To book an appointment for a free hearing test call us at 96 5839 5839 or visit our website www.aanviihearing.com.