When you notice a sudden change in your hearing, it can be concerning. If you’ve recently experienced ear discomfort or have had a cold, you might be wondering whether your hearing loss is linked to an ear infection. Understanding the connection between ear infections and hearing problems is important, as it can help you make informed decisions about when to seek professional care.
At Sussex Audiology Centre, we regularly support patients across Sussex who are experiencing hearing difficulties related to ear infections. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key signs that your hearing loss may be due to an ear infection, explain the different types of ear infections and how they affect your hearing, and outline what steps you can take to get the help you need.
An ear infection occurs when bacteria or viruses cause inflammation and fluid build-up in different parts of the ear. These infections can affect the outer ear, middle ear, or inner ear, and each type presents with distinct symptoms and varying impacts on your hearing.
The most common types of ear infections that affect hearing are otitis media (middle ear infection) and otitis externa (outer ear infection, often called swimmer’s ear). Otitis media is particularly likely to cause temporary hearing problems because it involves fluid accumulation behind the eardrum in the middle ear space.
When fluid builds up in the middle ear, it prevents the eardrum and the tiny bones inside your ear from moving properly. This blockage creates what we call conductive hearing loss, where sound waves cannot travel efficiently from the outer ear to the inner ear. The good news is that this type of hearing loss is usually temporary and resolves once the infection clears and the fluid drains.
Several telltale signs can indicate that your hearing difficulties are linked to an ear infection rather than another cause. We encourage you to pay attention to the following symptoms.
If your hearing has deteriorated rapidly over a few days or weeks, particularly following a cold, flu, or respiratory infection, an ear infection is a likely culprit. Gradual hearing loss that develops over months or years is more commonly associated with age-related hearing changes or noise exposure, whereas sudden hearing loss accompanied by other symptoms often points to an infection.
Many people with ear infection-related hearing loss describe their hearing as muffled, as though they’re listening through cotton wool or underwater. This sensation occurs because fluid in the middle ear dampens sound vibrations. You might also experience a feeling of fullness or pressure in your ear, similar to the sensation you get when flying or changing altitude.
Earache is one of the most common symptoms of an ear infection. The pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, intense discomfort. If you’re experiencing hearing loss alongside ear pain, particularly pain that worsens when you touch your ear or lie down, this strongly suggests an infection may be present.
Sometimes, an ear infection causes fluid or pus to drain from the ear canal. This discharge may be clear, yellow, or even blood-tinged. If you notice any drainage alongside hearing problems, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly, as this can indicate that the eardrum has perforated or that the infection requires treatment.
Ear infections often develop following a cold, sinus infection, or other upper respiratory illness. This happens because the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, can become blocked with mucus during these illnesses. When the Eustachian tube cannot drain properly, fluid accumulates in the middle ear, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, inadequate opening of the Eustachian tube can lead to fluid build-up and subsequent pressure and pain in the ear.
A raised temperature, fatigue, or general malaise can accompany ear infections, particularly in acute cases. If you have a fever along with hearing loss and ear discomfort, this combination suggests an active infection that may benefit from medical treatment.
While less common, some ear infections (particularly those affecting the inner ear) can cause dizziness, vertigo, or problems with balance. If you’re experiencing these symptoms alongside hearing changes, we recommend seeking urgent assessment, as inner ear infections require prompt attention.
Understanding the type of ear infection you may have can help you recognise whether your hearing loss is likely to be infection-related.
Acute otitis media is a sudden infection of the middle ear, usually caused by bacteria or viruses. It typically follows a cold or respiratory infection and is more common in children, though adults can certainly develop it too. Symptoms include sharp ear pain, fever, and temporary hearing loss due to fluid behind the eardrum. The hearing loss associated with acute otitis media is conductive and typically resolves once the infection is treated and the fluid drains.
Also known as glue ear, otitis media with effusion occurs when fluid remains in the middle ear after an infection has cleared or when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked without infection. The NHS notes that glue ear is very common in children and usually clears up within three months, though it can cause noticeable hearing difficulties during that time. Adults can also experience this condition, particularly if they have allergies, sinus problems, or Eustachian tube dysfunction. The hallmark of this condition is hearing loss without the severe pain typical of acute infections.
Otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, is an infection of the outer ear canal. It often develops when water remains in the ear after swimming, creating a moist environment where bacteria can flourish. Symptoms include pain that worsens when you touch your ear or move your jaw, itching in the ear canal, and sometimes a discharge. Hearing loss with otitis externa is usually mild and occurs because of swelling or debris blocking the ear canal. Once the infection is treated and any blockage cleared, hearing typically returns to normal.
Some individuals experience recurring or persistent ear infections that don’t fully resolve. Chronic infections can lead to more lasting changes in the ear, including damage to the eardrum or the small bones in the middle ear. If you’ve had multiple ear infections or your current infection hasn’t improved with treatment, we recommend seeking assessment from an audiologist or ENT specialist to prevent long-term complications.
If you suspect that your hearing loss is due to an ear infection, a proper diagnosis is essential. We use several methods to assess ear infections and their impact on hearing at our clinics across Sussex.
During a consultation, we’ll take a full health history to understand your symptoms, including when your hearing loss started, whether you’ve had recent illnesses, and any other ear-related symptoms you’re experiencing. We’ll then conduct an ear examination to look for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, fluid behind the eardrum, or discharge in the ear canal.
A hearing assessment is a valuable tool for determining whether your hearing loss is conductive (often associated with ear infections and middle ear fluid) or sensorineural (related to inner ear or nerve damage). During a hearing test, we measure your ability to hear different pitches and volumes, and we can identify whether there’s a blockage or fluid affecting sound transmission.
In cases where an ear infection is confirmed or suspected, we may recommend appropriate treatment or refer you to your GP or an ENT specialist for further management, particularly if antibiotics or other medical interventions are needed.
The good news is that when hearing loss is caused by an ear infection, treatment of the underlying infection usually restores hearing to normal or near-normal levels.
For bacterial ear infections, particularly acute otitis media or severe otitis externa, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotic or antifungal ear drops are often used for outer ear infections, while oral antibiotics may be necessary for middle ear infections. In some cases, corticosteroid ear drops may be used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the ear canal.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort while the infection heals. Applying a warm (not hot) compress to the affected ear may also provide relief.
If your ear infection is linked to congestion from a cold or allergies, decongestants or antihistamines may help reduce swelling in the Eustachian tube, allowing it to drain more effectively. However, these should be used under medical guidance, as they’re not suitable for everyone.
Not all ear infections require immediate antibiotic treatment. Mild cases, particularly otitis media with effusion, often resolve on their own within a few weeks. Your healthcare provider may recommend a period of watchful waiting to see if the infection clears naturally before prescribing medication.
Sometimes, what appears to be an ear infection may actually be a blockage caused by ear wax, or an infection may be complicated by wax build-up. If ear wax is contributing to your hearing loss, professional ear wax removal can provide immediate relief and improve your hearing. We offer safe and effective ear wax removal services at all of our Sussex locations.
For chronic or recurrent middle ear infections, particularly in cases of persistent fluid that doesn’t drain, a procedure called myringotomy (insertion of small tubes through the eardrum) may be recommended. This allows fluid to drain and helps prevent future infections. These procedures are typically performed by an ENT surgeon.
While some mild ear infections resolve without intervention, certain symptoms warrant prompt professional assessment. We recommend seeking care if you experience severe or persistent ear pain, sudden hearing loss, discharge from the ear, high fever, dizziness or balance problems, or if your symptoms haven’t improved after a few days.
If you’re unsure whether your hearing loss is related to an ear infection or another cause, we offer free hearing assessments at our clinics throughout Sussex. During your appointment, we’ll take a full health history, conduct a hearing test to determine the degree and type of hearing loss, discuss your lifestyle and any challenging listening environments you’re experiencing, and provide tailored recommendations to enhance your quality of life.
We understand that ear-related symptoms can be uncomfortable and worrying. Our experienced team is here to provide the care and reassurance you need, whether that involves treating an immediate problem or referring you to the appropriate specialist.
While not all ear infections can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your hearing health.
For swimmer’s ear prevention, dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering, and avoid inserting objects into your ear canal, including cotton buds, which can push bacteria deeper into the ear. If you’re prone to swimmer’s ear, we can discuss custom hearing protection options that keep water out of your ears while swimming.
Managing allergies and sinus problems effectively can help keep your Eustachian tubes clear and reduce the risk of middle ear infections. If you have allergies, speak to your GP about appropriate treatments. Treating respiratory infections promptly and managing congestion can also help prevent ear infections from developing.
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as this irritates the respiratory system and Eustachian tubes, increasing infection risk. Good hand hygiene, particularly during cold and flu season, can help prevent the respiratory infections that often precede ear infections.
Depending on the severity and type of your ear infection, several healthcare professionals may be involved in your care.
Your GP is typically the first point of contact for suspected ear infections. They can diagnose common ear infections, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and provide advice on pain management. For straightforward infections, your GP may be all you need to see.
Audiologists, like our team at Sussex Audiology Centre, specialise in hearing and balance disorders. We can perform comprehensive hearing assessments, conduct ear examinations, provide ear wax removal services, and offer advice on hearing protection and ear care. If we identify concerns that require medical treatment, we’ll signpost you to the appropriate healthcare provider.
ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating complex or chronic ear conditions. If you have recurrent infections, persistent fluid in the middle ear, or complications such as eardrum perforation, your GP or audiologist may refer you to an ENT specialist.
At Sussex Audiology Centre, we’re a family-run, independent audiology provider with clinics in Hove, Haywards Heath, Goring, Lewes, Ferring, Eastbourne, and Storrington. We’re here to support you with all aspects of your hearing health, whether you’re concerned about an ear infection, experiencing unexplained hearing loss, or need ongoing hearing care.
Our team offers a comprehensive range of services, including hearing assessments, ear wax removal, tinnitus support, balance testing and vestibular rehabilitation, and hearing aid fittings from leading brands such as Phonak, Oticon, and Widex. We also provide home visit services for those who cannot easily attend a clinic appointment.
If you’re experiencing hearing loss and think it might be related to an ear infection, we’re here to help. We offer free consultations and hearing assessments, providing you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your hearing health.
Don’t let uncertainty about your hearing loss prevent you from seeking the care you deserve. If you’re noticing muffled hearing, ear pain, or any of the symptoms we’ve discussed, we encourage you to book an appointment with us.
You can reach our friendly team through our Contact Us page, where you’ll find our email address and details for all our clinic locations. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and arrange a convenient appointment at your nearest clinic.
Your hearing health matters, and we’re committed to providing the professional, friendly, and clear guidance you need to understand your symptoms and access the right care. Whether your hearing loss is due to an ear infection, ear wax, or another cause entirely, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
30 May 2025
9 June 2023
10 May 2025
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