Chronic ear infections and the impact of COVID-19 on the inner ear have significant implications for hearing health. A recent study led by Harvard Medical School scientists at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, published in the journal Ear and Hearing, highlights how chronic conductive hearing loss, often a consequence of middle-ear infections, may lead to speech recognition deficits. This finding underscores the importance of prompt and effective treatment of these infections.
Unlike swimmer’s ear, which affects the external ear canal, a chronic middle ear infection can cause more severe symptoms, including hearing loss, eardrum perforation, and, in extreme cases, the need for surgery. Chronic ear infections can cause significant damage and conductive hearing loss if left untreated. Conductive hearing loss occurs when fluid or infection behind the eardrum impedes sound transmission.
In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, research has further revealed that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can infect the inner ear. This infection can lead to symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and dizziness. These findings came to light as patients exposed to COVID-19 reported these symptoms in clinics, prompting further investigation into the virus’s effects on auditory health.
Ear infections, in general, can be painful and lead to hearing impairment, fever, headaches, and balance issues. In children, recurrent ear infections can have long-term consequences on their hearing, potentially resulting in speech, social, and developmental delays. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Various factors can contribute to hearing loss, such as loud noise exposure, ototoxic medications, impacted earwax, middle ear problems, and aging. Tinnitus is often a symptom associated with these conditions and can also indicate Meniere’s disease, a disorder affecting the inner ear’s balance mechanism.
Conditions like acute otitis media (acute ear infections) are common causes of ear pain and hearing loss. Fluid can persist behind the eardrum following an infection, leading to chronic issues and potentially the development of a cholesteatoma, a destructive ear condition.
For more detailed information on these topics, visit the following resources:
Harvard Medical School on hidden hearing loss effects.
University of Utah Health on chronic ear infections.
MIT News on SARS-CoV-2 virus infecting the inner ear.
Mayo Clinic Health System on reasons to visit an ENT specialist.
Harvard Health on middle-ear infection.
Scope on COVID-19 infecting the inner ear.
