While ear infections in children are common, they can still affect adults and are caused by bacteria getting inside the ear.
Cause Of Adult Ear Infection
Bacteria enters the middle ear through what is known as the eustachian tube. When this happens, infection usually occurs. The resultant infection swells the lining which in turn causes blockage in the eustachian tube. This leads to the formation of fluid build up and as it increases, can cause temporary hearing loss and pain. Unchecked, the fluid build up can reach levels pressuring the ear drum and damaging it.
While there are several reasons infection can surface such as bacteria and viruses or from the common cold, it must be noted an adult doesn’t necessarily have to be ill to become infected. Water in the ears which is left to sit or mucous deposited into the eustachian tubes from blowing the nose can lead to infection.
