Verywell / Ellen Lindner
How Do Adults Get Ear Infections?
Ear infections in adults happen for the same reasons that kids get them.
Its usually because there is fluid buildup in the ear that is causing blockages and inflammation.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
The ear is divided into the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear.
Most ear infections do not require treatment and will clear up within a week or two.
Outer Ear Infections
Outer ear infections are sometimes calledswimmer’s ear, orotitis externa.
The opening of this part of the ear is external and visible.
However, these activities are not the only ways to get otitis externa.
An infection happens because when they get into a moist environment, they grow better.
you might also use a warm compress.
However, you should ask your healthcare provider before using any of these methods for swimmer’s ear.
Outer Ear Infection Prescription Medications
Antibiotic ear drops are often prescribed totreat outer ear infections.
Oral antibiotics are not usually needed for outer ear infections.
If you are prescribed oral antibiotics, follow your provider’s instructions.
Do not stop taking the medication even if you start feeling better.
you gotta finish all the medication to double-check the infection is treated.
If they’re not treated, outer ear infections can lead to a condition calledmalignant otitis externa.
If this happens, the infection spreads to nearby tissues and bones and causes serious damage.
Middle Ear Infections
Adults can also get middle ear infections.
The middle ear is inside the ear.
It has three tiny bones in it, called theossicles, that are necessary for hearing.
The auditory tube (Eustachian tube) runs from the middle ear to the throat.
It ventilates and equalizes the pressure in the middle ear.
Fluid from the middle ear space drains into the throat and is usually swallowed.
Types of Middle Ear Infections
Middle ear infections are calledotitis media.
Middle ear infections often come on after a cold virus orupper respiratory infection.
This prevents drainage and ventilation of the middle ear.
These medications also help if you have a fever.
However, it’s not always possible to identify the causewhether bacterial or viralof a middle ear infection.
Possible Complications of Middle Ear Infections
Some people get chronic or recurring middle ear infections.
The inner ear is next to the middle ear in the temporal bone of the skull.
The inner ear has thesemicircular canalsin it, which your body needs for balance and equilibrium.
Inner ear infections are much more likely to be sparked by a virus than a bacterial infection.
They are less common than outer ear infections or middle ear infections.
However, some ear infections wont get better on their own and will need medical treatment.
One example is usinggarlicas a treatment.
While research has suggested that garlic and garlic extract might help with ear infections, the evidence is conflicting.
Garlic contains compounds such asallicin, which has antimicrobial activity.
It may help to boost your immune system when used in your diet or as a supplement.
You should never put anything in your ear canal unless your healthcare provider tells you to do so.
That’s because you could puncture your eardrum or introduce more bacteria into your ear that could cause infection.
When your body is rested and nourished, it strengthens your immune system to help you fight off germs.
Do You Need Surgery?
While ear tube placement surgery can help in some cases, it also comes with risks.
Some ear infections will clear up on their own, but others need treatment.
You should talk to your provider if you think you have an ear infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is not always possible to identify the exact cause of an ear infection.
OTC pain relievers are often effective at alleviating the pain of an ear infection.
Heating pads can also be helpful but keep an eye on the temperature to avoid burning yourself.
For middle ear infections, elevating your upper body can help relieve the pressure in your ear.
If your symptoms are not getting better with home remedies you should talk to your provider.
You may need a prescription like an antibiotic or antifungal medication to treat the infection.
Many ear infections will clear up without antibiotics.
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