Hearing loss is common symptom of ear infections, although in most cases, it is likely to be temporary and go away after treatment. If a person experiences a severe type of ear infection, there can be longer-term or permanent impacts on their hearing ability.
If an ear infection is suspected, it is important that you seek advice from a GP or audiologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Ear infections can affect all three parts of the ear – outer, middle and inner.
The two main types of inner ear infections are labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis.
Labyrinthitis affects the hearing and balance systems. It is caused when the labyrinth in the inner part of the ear becomes inflamed due to colds, flu or bacterial infections. Symptoms include vertigo, dizziness, nausea and they often start suddenly. Vestibular neuritis, which is inflammation of the vestibular nerve, usually only affects balance not hearing.
Middle ear infections are bacterial infections known as otitis media. They typically affect children, but adults can also suffer from them too.
Middle ear infections are likely temporary but can be long-term depending on the severity. The infection is caused by a build-up of fluid behind the eardrum which blocks the middle ear. Symptoms include earache, high temperature, sickness and lack of energy.
Outer ear infections are caused by bacteria or fungal infections. They can affect people who use hearing aids, swim frequently (swimmer’s ear), smoke, allergies or use headphones regularly.
Common symptoms include ear pain, itchiness, feeling of fullness in the ear, redness and swelling. Hearing loss is another symptom of outer ear infections if the ear canal becomes blocked. This is usually temporary.
To learn about other causes of hearing loss, please visit our Causes of hearing loss page.
Hearing aids do not directly cause ear infections, but along with other factors, can contribute to infections developing. It is the accumulation of bacteria, moisture and wax building up that contributes to the ear becoming inflamed. Additionally, hearing aids that are not fitted correctly can cause friction and irritation in the ear canal.
Some simple steps can help to prevent ear infections for hearing aid users. Here are some important points to remember:
It is important to seek help from a medical professional for ear infections. This article is for guidance only.
Common types of balance disorder include Meniere's Disease and Labyrinthitis.
Sylvia shares a personal view of the stages of reaching acceptance about her hearing loss.
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