What Are Ear Infection Causes In Adults?
Ear infections are a common cause of illness. So what are ear infection causes in adults? Often there is no particular reason found. It might just happen with no particular cause setting it off. However, often there is a reason found. Simply having a cold can be enough to cause an infection. Blockage of the tubes which drain the middle ear space causes fluid and pressure to build up. The fluid causes the pressure which, in turn, causes pain. The fluid often becomes infected. The infection is caused because the fluid does not drain and air cannot get in. Air usually kills many of the nasty bacteria which are hanging about in the middle ear.
Swimming is a common cause. Repeatedly getting the ear wet, along with chlorine and bacteria in the water often results in ear infection. You can protect yourself against this with a good pair of earplugs. ZenPlugs are great for preventing swimmer's ear. This is because they block water and contain an antibacterial which kills all the nasty bugs.
Eczema of the ear can lead to infections because the skin can become damaged and break down. Bacteria can get through the broken barrier. People with diabetes are more likely to suffer infections generally. Once an infection has set in it can also be harder to treat.
If you think you may have an ear infection or other problem then make sure you visit your doctor for treatment. This article does not count as medical advice.
What Are The Signs Of Ear Infections?
Ear infections are common. They are more common amongst children and those who swim. Individuals who suffer from eczema and psoriasis in their outer ears are also at higher risk. So, what are the signs of ear infections?
- Soreness
- Itching
- Flaking
- Discharge
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Deafness
- Feeling of fullness in the head or ear
Some or all of these signs of ear infections may occur. Contact your doctor if you think you may have an ear infection
If you have an ear problem you may have been recommended grommets by your ear nose and throat doctor. In this case, you may be wondering what are grommets? Grommets are very tiny tubes with a flange at either end which are placed in a small hole in the eardrum. They allow air to enter the middle ear space and allow discharge to escape. They are often recommended for people with recurrent otitis media or chronic middle ear effusion. This is often called glue ear.
A surgeon makes a tiny cut in the drum with a scalpel and inserts the grommets, which may only be a few millimetres long, with a pair of tweezers. It remains in place for several weeks or months, until it falls out naturally. The grommet serves to stop the hole healing up and allows air into the middle ear space.
The bacteria which cause infections are killed by air and so ventilation prevents infection. If you have grommets, your doctor may suggest that you must not get your ears wet. This is because the water can pass through the grommet into the middle ear space and it is possible that it may cause damage. In this case it is worth wearing earplugs even for hair washing or at any time when water may accidentally get into your ears. ZenPlugs moulded earplugs are ideal for this purpose as they are individually fitted to each ear. This makes them highly comfortable, stay in well and are waterproof and so will keep water out.
ZenPlugs are also antibacterial and so excel at preventing ear infections. They also prevent swimmer's ear by using a unique double action. Their waterproof qualities combined with their antibacterial nature give ear infections a double whammy.
Dr Toby Bateson