Ear Infection Symptoms In Adults

By: Courtney Ferry

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Ear infection symptoms in adults can be quite painful and bothersome. An ear infection usually occurs when someone has a cold and is already ill, water gets trapped in the ear, or when bacterial and viral infections invade the body. Many associate ear infections with children, however, adults can easily get them too. Below are some of the common symptoms of an ear infection in adults. 

  1. Pain in the ear. One of the first signs of an adult ear infection is often pain inside of the ear. The ear may have aching, throbbing pain, or it may be painful to the touch. Loud noises may also trigger pain in the ear. 
  2. Temporary or slight hearing loss. Not everyone will experience this symptom, but it can occur with an ear infection. You may notice that you cannot hear as well as you normally can, and hearing loss may come and go. 
  3. Fever. An ear infection often occurs with a cold or flu, so if you experience a fever with an ear infection, it is not uncommon. Along with a fever, the ear may feel warm to the touch or more sensitive than usual. 
  4. Ear blockage. This is a common symptom of an ear infection in both adults and children. Often the ear canal will become obstructed with wax and buildup, causing a blockage in the ear canal. Hearing loss can also occur with an ear blockage. 
  5. Drowsiness/dizziness. With an ear infection, you may experience episodes of drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. Because many ear infections are caused by bacterial and viral infections, they can create symptoms of nausea and drowsiness. 
Posted on: Apr. 19, 2011