Ear infections are a common ailment that can affect individuals of all ages, including adults. Otitis Media, or middle ear infection, occurs when bacteria or viruses from the nose and throat become trapped behind the eardrum, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup. Although different, it’s important to distinguish this from otitis externa, also known as swimmer’s ear, which is an infection of the outer ear canal typically caused by moisture that supports bacterial growth.

Studies, including one prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, have shown that viruses such as cytomegalovirus, mumps virus, and hepatitis viruses can cause deafness, but the mechanisms behind this are not fully understood. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has also been found capable of infecting the inner ear. Common signs of chronic ear infections include hearing loss, a feeling of fullness, pain and pressure in the ear, and possibly one-sided tinnitus.

Ear infections often follow other illnesses such as a cold, flu, or allergies that cause congestion and swelling of the nasal passages and eustachian tubes. According to Harvard Health, when the eustachian tubes are swollen or blocked, fluids can build up in the middle ear and create a breeding ground for infection. Treatments typically involve medicated antibiotic eardrops, especially in cases of swimmer’s ear, while middle ear infections may require systemic antibiotics.

There are various types of middle ear infections, including Acute Otitis Media (AOM) and Otitis Media with Effusion (OME), as detailed by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. AOM is characterized by sudden inflammation and fluid behind the eardrum, leading to symptoms such as fever, ear pain, and hearing loss, whereas OME may occur when fluid remains after the infection has subsided.

Inflammation leading to middle ear infections usually starts after a sore throat, cold, or other upper respiratory infection. The congestion spreads to the middle ear, causing fluid buildup behind the eardrum. For more questions regarding earaches and ear infections, the Mayo Clinic Health System provides valuable insights and resources.