Recurrent Ear Infections

Overview

An ear infection is an infection of the middle ear. A recurrent ear infection can act like a chronic ear infection which is an ear infection that does not heal. The tube that drains fluid from the middle ear can become plugged, which causes the infection. This buildup of fluid presses on the eardrum, which causes the pain. Ear infections occur much more often in children than adults.

Symptoms

• Feeling pressure in the ear
• Mild ear pain
• Fluid draining from ears
• Low fever
• Hearing loss
• Trouble sleeping

Causes

Most ear infections start after a cold, an allergy flare-up or a sinus infection. Swelling blocks the eustachian tube, the small passage that drains the middle ear, and fluid trapped behind the eardrum becomes infected. Children get more ear infections because their eustachian tubes are shorter and more level, and because enlarged adenoids can block them.

Diagnosis

The doctor looks at the eardrum for redness, bulging and fluid, and asks how often infections have occurred. When infections keep returning or fluid does not clear, a hearing check may be recommended, since fluid behind the eardrum can temporarily reduce hearing.

Treatment options

• Watchful waiting and pain relief for mild infections
• Antibiotics when a bacterial infection is likely
• Ear tubes to ventilate the middle ear and drain fluid when infections are frequent
• Treating contributing problems such as enlarged adenoids or allergies

When to see a doctor

See an ENT if you or your child has several ear infections in a year, fluid that lasts for months, hearing or speech concerns, or drainage from the ear.

ENT Utah sees patients at our Tooele County office in Stansbury Park and our West Valley City office. Call 435-268-0300 to schedule an appointment.