Ear infections can occur more commonly in children than adults; however, adults are still likely to get an ear infection. Dissimilar to a child’s ear infection which was minor and often goes away easily, an ear infection in adults can sometimes be a sign of very severe health issues. So, if you’re someone with an ear infection, then it’s the right idea for you to pay more attention to the symptoms. The best thing you can do is to consult a doctor to get an ear infection treatment for adults. 

Symptoms of an ear infection in adults

The symptoms of an ear infection in adults are of 3 types that correspond to the 3 main areas of the ear. They are as follows:

  • Inner ear infection: Inner ear infection is usually not an actual infection of the ear. They are in actuality inflammation. Apart from ear pain, the symptoms of an inner ear infection can include nausea, vertigo, dizziness, vomiting, and sudden hearing loss. Furthermore, an inner ear infection can sometimes signal a very severe condition such as meningitis, however, this condition occurs rarely. 
  • Middle ear infection: A middle ear infection also known as Otis media occurs when fluids are trapped behind the eardrum. This causes your eardrum to bulge. Apart from ear pain, you can also feel fullness in your ear and may also have a fever. Further, you can have trouble hearing things clearly until the infection goes away. 

If the middle ear infection gets worse, it will progress into a condition called tympanic membrane rupture. If this happens, then you will find drainage of fluid from your ear. With this condition, you will also experience sudden hearing loss; however, will gradually heal on its own. 

  • Outer ear infection: An outer ear infection also known as Otis external, usually get starts with an itchy rash. They can later develop into symptoms such as pain, redness, tenderness, and swelling. 

Prevention

The following steps will help you in preventing an ear infection. They are as follows:

  • Be sure to clean and dry your ear completely after showering or swimming.
  • Do not smoke, and avoid or limit secondhand smoke as possible.
  • Be sure your vaccines are up-to-date.
  • Thoroughly wash your hands, and try to avoid contact with a person that has cold or other upper respiratory problems.
  • Try managing your allergies by taking allergy medicines.

Treatment for ear infections in adults

The type of ear infection will determine the type of treatment. Antibiotics are always required in most cases of middle ear infections and outer ear infections.

  • Treating middle ear infection: The doctor may prescribe several antibiotics. This can include antibiotics that are taken orally and antibiotics that need to be applied to the area of the infection. The doctor may also prescribe a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medicines to ease those pains and manage the symptoms. 

However, you should consider taking antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids, if you still experience symptoms such as allergies and colds. 

  • Treating outer ear infection: Here, the doctor may also prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, and pain reliever medicines. Make sure you clean your outer ear carefully before applying the antimicrobial cream.