Ear Infections in Adults: What You Need To Know

Ear pain is one of the most uncomfortable conditions that you ever experience. An analysis says that ear infection is more common in children than adults. The difference between the ear infection in children and adults is that it goes on its own in children but it could be a sign of a serious condition in adults.

If you are an adult, make sure that you know about the symptoms and infection types.

There are different types of ear infections, including inner, middle, and outer ear.

• Middle ear infection 

ENT specialists in Lahore reveal that the middle ear is the location which is behind the eardrums. An infection that occurs in the middle ear is known as otitis media. It occurs when there is fluid trapped behind the eardrums and leads to a bulge in the eardrums. It also gives you the feeling of fullness in your ear.

Some people experience different symptoms when they have a middle ear infection, such as fever and trouble hearing sound.

• Inner ear infection 

An inner ear infection is often referred to as the inflammation of the ear. Such a condition does not come alone as it comes with nausea, vomiting, dizziness, etc. but you should not avoid the pain as there is the possibility that it is a sign of any serious condition, like meningitis.

• Outer ear infection 

The outer ear is the area of your ear that goes from your eardrum to the head outside. When you have an outer ear infection, it is known as otitis externa. You can experience this condition that starts with an itchy rash and leads to redness, swelling, pain, or tender experience.

Here, we have come with some potential causes of ear infections in adults.

What Causes Middle Ear Infection?

Studies confirm that middle ear infection is caused by some respiratory problems or it could be originating from cold. Eustachian tubes are responsible for transferring the infection from one ear to the other. The function of these tubes is to regulate the air pressure inside your rear and help in connecting the back of your throat and nose.

The Eustachian tubes can get irritated when you have a middle ear infection. It also increases the chances of swelling of these tubes. It does not allow your ear to drain in a proper way. Such fluid buildup against your eardrums causes the condition to get worse.

Outer ear infection 

Experts have named the outer ear infection as the swimmers’ ear that starts with the water that often remains while bathing or during swimming. Many cases have been reported in which people get outer ear infections after swimming. When the moisture remains in your ear, it allows the bacteria to breed. It can also occur when you put your finger inside for scratching, it can cause bacterial infection.

Here are some risk factors that you need to learn about.

Risk Factors 

Children are more vulnerable to ear infections than adults. The reason is clear as the Eustachian tubes are smaller in kids than adults which increases the chances. People who have smaller Eustachian tubes are more likely to develop an ear infection.

Smoking is injurious to health but not only yours but for all the people who are around you.

Smoke increases the chances of developing ear infections. An analysis also shares that seasonal allergies and or any kind of allergy can put you at high risk of developing an ear infection. People who develop upper respiratory infections or get cold are also vulnerable to ear infections.

Prevention Tips 

Ear infection can be painful and may cause longer discomfort. Here are some prevention tips that you need to go with.

• Go with the allergy medications to avoid seasonal allergies.
• Wash your ears to keep them clean and use a cotton swab.
• When you take shower or go swimming, make sure that you clean your ears.
• Avoid smoking and even staying around the people who smoke.
• Get a vaccine to avoid allergies or infections.

A healthy lifestyle can help to prevent ageing eye-related issues. You need to learn what healthy diet you should go for. Experts share that nutrients like copper, vitamin C, zinc, and beta carotene are crucial for eye health. 

Here are the ten best foods you need to add to your diet plan. 

Seeds: Seeds are high in omega-3s and a great source of vitamin E. 

Citrus fruits: Studies reveal that citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. It helps to fight off age-related eye issues. 

Carrots: Carrots’ orange colour depends on the beta carotene that goes with vitamin A to improve vision. 

Final Thought 

Never ignore the ear pain or infection as it can lead to more complications. Untreated infections often lead to permanent hearing loss, so visit your doctor when you experience any symptoms.