Adult Ear Infections

Causes of Ear Infections in Adults

Bacteria or viruses that get inside the ear are the most common causes of adult ear infections. These bacteria or viruses can initially cause sore throats, colds, or other respiratory or breathing problems and then spread to the middle ear.

 

 

What Are the Symptoms?

Ear infections are less common in adults than they are in children. When adult ear infection symptoms do occur, they can include:

 

These possible symptoms of an ear infection in adults are not sure signs of otitis media. Other health problems can also cause these symptoms. Anyone with possible symptoms of an ear infection should see a doctor. Only a qualified health professional can diagnose and treat the problem.

 

Making a Diagnosis

If a person has possible ear infection signs or symptoms, the doctor will conduct a physical exam to look inside the ear for inflammation or fluid and ask about the patient's personal and family medical history. In order to help make an ear infection diagnosis, the doctor may also recommend additional tests that examine the ear or hearing.

 

Treatment for Adult Ear Infections

In most cases, an ear infection in an adult is treated with antibiotic medicine. Depending on the symptoms that are present, the doctor may recommend waiting for several days before beginning an antibiotic; research has shown that adult ear infections may improve by themselves without the need for antibiotics. Acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) or other pain relievers can be used to treat any pain or fever caused by the ear infection.

 

Most adults start seeing improvement within two to three days. If an antibiotic was prescribed, it should be continued for the directed amount of time -- even if symptoms have improved.