Ear infections are a common health issue, particularly middle ear infections, which are the most prevalent type among adults. These infections occur in the air-filled space behind the eardrum, involving the tiny vibrating bones of the ear. They can range from mild to severe in pain intensity.

In adults, the symptoms of a middle ear infection include ear pain, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, fluid draining from the ear (especially if the eardrum has ruptured), fever, and hearing loss. It’s essential to understand that earaches can be caused by various factors, not just ear infections.

Common causes of ear infections include colds leading to inflammation of the eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the throat, thus trapping fluid and creating an ideal environment for germs to grow. Swelling of the adenoids can also block the eustachian tubes, leading to fluid accumulation and infection.

Chronic ear infections, or recurring acute otitis media, can affect anyone but are most common in children. These persistent infections can lead to complications like fluid buildup and eardrum rupture.

Apart from infections, ear pain can also be due to other causes such as injury, inflammation or infection in the ear canal (often referred to as swimmer’s ear), infection of the external ear and ear lobe (cellulitis), or neuralgia pain caused by irritation of the nerves in the ear.

For detailed information, you can visit these credible sources:

Mayo Clinic Health System
University of Rochester Medical Center
Harvard Health
Ohio State Medical Center
UC Irvine Medical Center

Pharyngitis, or a sore throat, is another common ailment. This painful inflammation of the back part of the throat can involve the tonsils and other parts of the throat. The most frequent cause of sore throat is infection with bacteria or a virus. For more information on sore throats, visit Harvard Health’s detailed guide.