Listen up: Take note of these adult ear infection symptoms.

Ear infection symptoms in adults

It's time to decode the messages your ears might send you — here are some key ear infection symptoms.

• Earache. That persistent ache in your ear could be your body's way of signaling an infection. If you find yourself wincing in discomfort, pay attention.
• Reduced hearing. If sounds start feeling muffled or distant, an adult ear infection might be the culprit.
• Fluid drainage. An infection can sometimes lead to fluid buildup in the ear, which might result in unusual drainage. Watch for any unexpected leaks.
• Pressure. Do you feel like you have a plugged ear? This sensation might be a sign that your body is battling an infection.
• Dizziness or vertigo. If you suddenly feel off-balance or experience bouts of dizziness, your ears might be trying to send you an important message.

Remember, while these symptoms might indicate an ear infection, they can also have other causes.

When in doubt, reach out to a health care professional. CityMD is here to lend a helping hand and provide the guidance you need to find your way back to optimal ear health.

How to treat an ear infection

Facing an ear infection head-on doesn't have to be a daunting task.

You can help ease discomfort and speed up the healing process with the right approach. Here's a quick guide to navigating ear infection treatment.

• Rest and hydration. As with any ailment, getting the rest your body needs and staying hydrated can work wonders in aiding recovery.
• Pain relief. As recommended by a health care professional, over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce the discomfort often accompanying ear infections.
• Warm compress. Applying a warm — not hot — compress to the affected ear can help ease ear pain.
• Avoid irritants. Refrain from inserting foreign objects into your ear, and steer clear of activities that might introduce moisture into the ear canal.
• Prescription medications. Your health care provider might prescribe antibiotics to target the underlying cause if the infection is bacterial.
• Expert advice. Don’t hesitate to consult a health care professional when in doubt or if symptoms persist. Your physician can offer personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

How long do ear infections last?

The duration can vary based on factors such as the type of infection, individual health, and how quickly you seek treatment. Remember that everyone's ears are different, so there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

Here's a general overview to give you an idea.

• Acute ear infections. These are the most common infections, typically caused by bacteria or viruses. Symptoms might start improving within a few days with proper treatment, like antibiotics for bacterial infections. Complete recovery could take around one to two weeks.
• Chronic ear infections. In some cases, ear infections can become chronic, recurring over time. Managing chronic infections might involve extended treatment and lifestyle adjustments to prevent recurrence.
• Fluid buildup. If fluid remains in the middle ear after an infection, it might take a few weeks to several months for it to fully drain and for your hearing to return to normal.

While the above timeline offers a general idea, consulting a health care professional for an accurate assessment is crucial.

Treating adult ear infection symptoms at CityMD

Your ear health matters, and at CityMD, we're here to provide care for adult ear infections.

Our dedicated team can provide personalized treatment, rapid relief, and a smooth recovery. CityMD is here to guide you and your loved ones when ear infection symptoms occur. And if you need additional care, we can quickly connect you with a specialist. Your well-being is our priority, so let us be your partner in comfort and care.