Introduction
Earaches or ear infections may appear to be a minor annoyance, but they can cause incapacitating pain. The pain can feel unbearable, making it difficult to sleep, eat, or do anything but think about the pain. While ear infections are more common in children, older adults are also susceptible to these infections since ageing may damage the structure of the ears. Adults with a weakened immune system or a chronic skin condition, such as psoriasis are more likely to develop ear infections.
Adult ear infections are typically caused by germs such as viruses, fungi, or bacteria. People with weakened immune systems or inflammation in the ear structures may be more susceptible to ear infections than others in rare cases. Diabetes, for example, is a risk factor for malignant Otitis Externa, a rare condition characterized by infection of the bones in the ear canal. People who have chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, are more likely to develop outer ear infections.
Older persons with ear infections could exhibit the following signs:
· Vertigo
· Balance problems
· Hearing loss
Symptoms of ear infection
The ear is a complex part of the body that is made up of several different parts. Ear infections can occur in any of these areas and cause a variety of symptoms. The ear is divided into three sections: the inner, middle, and outer ear. Adult ear infections can cause the following symptoms, which vary depending on location. Common symptoms include:
· Pain (either sudden, sharp pain or a dull, continuous pain)
· Soreness
· Hearing changes
· Feeling of fullness in the ear
· Nausea and vomiting
· Dizziness
· Fever (at times)
· Headache
· Trouble hearing or responding to sounds.
Discharge from the ear can indicate a more serious issue, such as an eardrum rupture.
Middle ear infections
The area directly behind the eardrum is the middle ear. Middle ear infections, also known as Otitis Media, is frequently brought on by bacteria or viruses that enter the ear by the mouth, eyes, or nasal passages.
The common cold, allergies, and flu can lead to middle ear infections. Other upper respiratory infections, such as sinus or throat infections, can cause middle ear infections as bacteria enter the eustachian tubes. The eustachian tubes connect the ear to the nose and throat and are in charge of regulating ear pressure. Their position makes them easy targets for germs. Infections in eustachian tubes can cause inflammation and prevent proper drainage, which works toward the symptoms of middle ear infections. People who smoke may also be more likely to get middle ear infections.
A middle ear infection may have the following signs and symptoms:
• Pain in the ear
· A sense of having blocked ears
· Lack of energy
• A build-up of fluid or pus behind the eardrum
• Difficulty hearing
• Fever
Outer ear infections
Outer ear infections, also referred to as otitis externa can result from irritation or injury to the ear canal from foreign objects, such as cotton swabs or fingernails and water exposure.
A common outer ear infection is known as swimmer’s ear. It is typically caused by the introduction of moisture from outside the body. The likelihood of contracting an infection may be higher in people who spend a lot of time in the water. After swimming or taking a bath, water that collects in the ear canal makes the ideal environment for bacteria or fungus to flourish. Untreated water may therefore be more prone to result in an outer ear infection.
Common symptoms include:
• Pain in the ear or ear canal
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Tender to the touch.
• The skin may become red and warm
Treatment for ear infection
Depending on whether your ear infection is in the inner, middle, or outer ear, the recommended therapies will vary. An ear infection can only be identified by a doctor, who will determine which antibiotic to give you based on the type of bacteria that is most likely causing your ear infection. Antibiotics may occasionally be used to treat infections. But antibiotics shouldn’t be taken without a prescription. Most people experience relief within 24 hours of beginning an antibiotic course, and symptoms should improve significantly within 48-72 hours.
Final Thoughts
Although the majority of ear infections do not cause long-term problems, untreated recurring infections can lead to serious complications. Chronic ear infections that go untreated can cause eardrum tears. So, do not wait it out and risk the infection worsening. Seek treatment right away.
