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Some health issues seem so tied to childhood that it's hard to imagine them happening to adults: Kids frequently throw up, they scrape their knees, they have their tonsils removed, and they get ear infections. While these things can happen to adults, it's less frequent. Nonetheless, due to the strong association with childhood, it can sometimes take a while for an adult to recognize the signs when they appear. Ear infections are a perfect example of this.
Ear infections aren't just for kids. If you're under the impression that they're exclusive to children, you might delay seeking treatment. Let’s change that by exploring the causes and symptoms of ear infections in adults.
Are ear infections possible for adults?
They absolutely can. I sent a message to a friend about writing this article, and she shared that she had one right now, but it took her weeks to see a doctor because she assumed that could never happen to someone in their 30s. The issue didn’t resolve because she misjudged the problem and chose not to seek medical help; it only worsened during that time.
As explained by the doctors at Woodstock Family Practice & Urgent Care in Georgia on their website, children are more prone to ear infections than adults due to the small, short, and horizontally aligned eustachian tubes they have while growing. This makes drainage less effective. Mucus can accumulate, often from a cold or allergies, leading to bacteria ‘setting up shop and infecting the tissues.’
Your eustachian tubes have matured more than they once were (congratulations!) but that doesn't grant immunity.
What types and symptoms of ear infections can adults experience?
Here are the types of ear infections that can affect you:
Inner ear infection
Middle ear infection
Outer ear infection
Each of these types comes with its distinct set of symptoms. For example, an inner ear infection could cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, or even hearing loss, as noted by Healthline. Problems within the inner ear may also point to more serious conditions, such as meningitis, so it's essential to get checked if you experience these symptoms.
In middle ear infections, keep an eye out for fever or difficulty hearing. If the infection progresses to a tympanic membrane rupture, fluid might leak from your ears, potentially causing sudden hearing loss. According to Healthline, this type of infection typically heals on its own. Colds or respiratory issues often trigger these infections.
Outer ear infections often manifest as an itchy rash on the outer ear. You may experience pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling. These infections are commonly referred to as 'swimmer’s ear' because they usually occur when water gets trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing, followed by bacterial growth. Scratches or irritation to the outer ear can also lead to bacterial infections.
It’s crucial to keep a close eye on these symptoms to prevent permanent hearing loss or the infection from spreading to other areas of your head. With prompt treatment, most infections can be stopped early, so don’t panic—just visit a doctor.
What factors influence whether you’ll get an ear infection?
Your eustachian tubes' size and angle can have an impact, though you might not be well-versed in those details. However, there are factors you're likely familiar with, such as smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, allergies (whether seasonal or constant), or even catching a cold or an upper respiratory infection.
So, if you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned and are a smoker, someone with allergies, or recovering from a cold, it's worth considering that you may have an ear infection.
To reduce the risk of ear infections, make sure to dry your ears thoroughly after they get wet, think about quitting smoking, and try to manage your cold or allergy symptoms as effectively as possible.
How are ear infections in adults treated?
Ear infections often clear up on their own in a few days, as noted by Healthline, but if the pain lingers beyond that time, it's important to consult a doctor—especially if a fever develops. Other warning signs like fluid draining from your ear or hearing loss indicate that you should seek medical attention sooner rather than later.
When you visit the doctor, expect a familiar process: They'll use an otoscope to examine your ear, and they might even use a pneumatic one to blow a bit of air to test your eardrum's reaction. You might also be asked to take a hearing test.
If you have an inner ear infection, antibiotics are likely to be prescribed, though you might not get the nostalgic pink liquid medicine from your childhood. Sorry to say, growing up often comes with some disappointments.
For middle ear infections, antibiotics are generally the go-to treatment, but they might be administered in ear drops rather than orally. Your doctor could also suggest over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or possibly a decongestant or antihistamine if you still have lingering cold or allergy symptoms.
If you're diagnosed with an outer ear infection and it's determined to be bacterial, expect antibiotics. You'll also need to clean your outer ear carefully and apply antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatments. If the infection is fungal, a prescription antifungal medication will likely be prescribed.
