Can an ear infection lead to hearing loss?
Ear infections are a common issue that mostly affects children, but this doesn’t mean that adults are immune from them. In fact, adult ear infections may be more serious and pose greater health complications.
One of the common complications associated with ear infections is hearing loss. Whilst this isn’t something that necessarily will happen, it’s important to understand the connection between the two to effectively manage any ear infection-induced hearing loss and maintain good hearing health.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ear infections and hearing loss in both children and adults.
Do ear infections cause hearing loss?
In short: yes, ear infections can cause hearing loss. However, there are a few different things that can contribute to this including the type of ear infection and how serious it is.
Understanding the types of ear infections
The ear is made up of three parts – the external (outer ear), (middle ear), and internal (inner ear). Any part of the ear is susceptible to infection and each will pose their own symptoms and risk level of developing hearing loss as a consequence.
Outer ear infections and hearing loss
An outer ear infection (otitis externa) affects the canal portion of the outer ear and is usually caused by bacteria. It’s estimated that around 1 in 10 people will be affected by it at some point in their lives
It’s often referred to as swimmer’s ear as one of the main causes is the remnants of water in your ear which creates a moist environment for bacteria to grow. However, outer ear infections can also be caused by:
- Damage to the ear canal by using objects such as a cotton swab or finger to remove ear wax
- Excessive ear cleaning which results in not having enough ear wax to protect the lining of the canal
- Improperly fitting or unclean hearing aids or earplugs
- Hot and humid climates
- Allergies or sensitivities to certain products like hair care
- Chronic skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
Outer ear infections will typically only affect one ear and can result in some hearing loss in this ear. However, this is usually temporary and will likely resolve once the ear infection has cleared.
Middle ear infections and hearing loss
An infection in the middle ear (otitis media) is most common in young children and can often be a result of something else such as a cold, throat infection or allergies.
Within the ear, we have Eustachian tubes which are thin tubes that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. If an infection causes these tubes to swell, this blocks mucus from draining into the throat which leads to fluid being trapped behind the eardrum. This can then create a breeding ground for viruses or bacteria to grow.
Most hearing loss associated with middle ear infections is temporary and hearing will typically return to normal once the fluid drains and the infection clears. However, there may be some severe cases that can lead to permanent hearing loss if untreated.
Inner ear infections and hearing loss
Infections in the inner ear are less common but can have more serious consequences impacting hearing and balance, potentially leading to sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Inner ear infections can take two different forms:
- Labyrinthitis: This is an infection of the labyrinth, a complex system in the inner ear responsible for hearing and balance. Viral infections that cause colds, flu, and respiratory infections are typically the most common causes as they can spread to the inner ear. However, it can also be caused by a bacterial infection.
- Vestibular neuritis: This is an infection of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. This can cause prolonged vertigo but unlike labyrinthitis, is unlikely to cause hearing loss.
Typically, labyrinthitis will clear up in around 2-4 weeks but in severe cases, it may cause damage to the inner ear and blood vessels. This may cause temporary or permanent sensorineural hearing loss, depending on the severity of the infection and the extent of damage to the inner ear structures.
Hearing loss caused by labyrinthitis is more likely to be permanent if the infection is bacterial or if treatment is delayed. In these cases, the use of hearing aids may be required. However, it’s always recommended to seek treatment from your GP for inner ear infections as soon as possible to prevent reaching this stage.
Ear infections and hearing loss in adults vs children
As we mentioned earlier, ear infections are more common in children but adults can develop them, too.
Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections due to two key reasons:
- Children’s eustachian tubes are smaller, less developed and more horizontal than those in adults. This means they’re less effective at draining fluid, making them more susceptible to infection.
- Children’s immune systems are also still developing, making them more vulnerable to catching infections with more difficulty fighting them off.
As we get older, our eustachian tubes start to angle which helps to improve fluid control, and our immune systems develop over time making it easier to fight off potential infections.
If you develop an ear infection as an adult, you’ll likely be able to pinpoint some of the most common symptoms such as earache, muffled hearing, or a feeling of fullness in the ear. However, some signs to look out for that may indicate an ear infection in young children include:
- Poor sleep
- Tugging at or rubbing the ear
- Irritability or restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Crying when lying down
How long will hearing loss last after an ear infection?
Most ear infections get better on their own within 3 to 5 days and do not need any specific treatment, but a course of antibiotics may be prescribed by your GP if symptoms don’t subside during this time.
Usually, when the ear infection starts to clear your hearing will also return to normal but this could take a few weeks or more in certain cases. Post ear infection hearing loss is almost always temporary, but severe cases may lead to a perforated eardrum which can result in permanent loss of hearing if this perforation does not heal.
If you are concerned about your own or your child’s hearing following an ear infection, always visit an audiologist for a thorough assessment and advice on the best course of action to prevent any further damage.
Managing post ear infection hearing loss
Following an ear infection with associated hearing loss, it’s highly recommended to make an appointment with your audiologist to monitor your hearing and ensure that any residual issues are addressed.
You may have a build up of ear wax which can be removed quickly and safely by microsuction.
A hearing test can provide an in-depth assessment of your hearing abilities and identify any potential problems. If you are found to have permanent hearing loss as a result of an ear infection, there are ways that this can be managed.
Harley Street Hearing offers private hearing tests and hearing tests for children in London. Our team of clinical audiologists can accurately diagnose any hearing issues and advise on a suitable treatment plan.
Hearing aids are the most effective solution for almost all cases of hearing loss, helping to restore some of your hearing ability. We work with all leading hearing aid manufacturers and can offer an extensive range of modern, discreet and stylish hearing aids tailored to your individual needs.
If an ear infection has also affected your balance, vestibular diagnostics could help. Our team of specialised clinicians offer vestibular assessments and work alongside specialist ENT consultants who provide diagnosis and treatment plans.
If you feel like you’re experiencing hearing loss, whether as a result of an ear infection or not, get in touch with us to book an appointment.
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