Yes, there actually are. While most children typically get sick with a middle ear infection, adults can experience three different kinds of ear infections: inner, middle and outer ear infections.
Our AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne team walks you through each type of ear infection and how to avoid them below, so read on!
What Are the Differences Between Each Ear Infection?
Inner and outer ear infections are less common types of infections. An inner ear infection is usually a case of ear inflammation rather than an infection. Dizziness, nausea, vomiting and ear pain are typical symptoms of inner ear trouble. An outer ear infection is also known as “otitis externa” and often starts as an itchy rash.
A middle ear infection is the most common type of infection. It’s caused by fluid trapped behind the eardrum, which causes the eardrum to bulge. Although symptoms vary a little depending on the type of ear infection, we’ve listed the common ear infection symptoms below.
Common Ear Infection Symptoms
- Mild pain or discomfort inside the ear
- A feeling of pressure inside the ear that persists
- Fussiness in young infants
- Pus-like ear drainage
- Hearing loss
How Can I Prevent Ear Infections?
It can be easy to forget to care for your ears, but the way you care for them is the most effective prevention tactic!
We’ve listed some prevention tips below.
Ways to Prevent Ear Infections
- Keep your ears clean by washing them and using a cotton swab carefully. Make sure you dry your ears completely after swimming or taking a shower.
- Don’t smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke as much as you can.
- Manage your allergies by avoiding triggers and keeping up with allergy medications.
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Try to avoid people who have colds or other upper respiratory problems.
- Make sure your vaccines are up to date.
AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne is opening soon! We’re excited to be serving our community.
