What Causes Recurrent Ear Infections?

Even though children are most prone to developing recurrent ear infections, adults can suffer from them as well. Ear infections, medically known as otitis media, can be both painful and stress-inducing, especially when they occur one after another.

Underlying Causes

There are a variety of reasons why someone continually develops an ear infection. Some patients develop recurrent ear infections because of allergies while others might suffer from chronic sinusitis, which leads to an ear infection. People who develop other viral respirations, such as colds, sometimes develop an ear infection as well.

Types of Ear Infections

There are two distinct types of infections that can affect the inner ear:

• Acute otitis media: This type of infection usually presents suddenly with acute swelling and redness. This happens when fluid becomes trapped inside the ear. It may or may not be associated with pain or fever.
• Chronic otitis media with effusion: Chronic otitis media occurs when fluid becomes trapped in the inner ear. This causes feelings of fullness and possibly the sensation of fluid running in the ear. Chronic otitis media can be ongoing or recurrent, and it may affect your hearing.

Symptoms of an Ear Infection in Adults

The symptoms of an ear infection can range from mild ear stuffiness to severe pain and fever. Some patients might not experience pain and only have a feeling of fullness but experience drainage from the ear.

When to Seek Treatment

If you think you have an ear infection, either without or without other respiratory symptoms, you should seek medical treatment. When caught early, the physicians at Lakeside Allergy ENT can effectively treat your symptoms and diagnose the underlying cause of your ear infections. To schedule an appointment in either Rockwall or Forney, TX, contact the office at 972-771-5443.