7 Signs of a Chronic Ear Infection You Should Never Ignore

chronic ear infection

Ear infections are extremely common health problems. However, they can also lead to numerous health conditions, including brain abscess or meningitis. 

Therefore, it’s really important to make sure you know the signs of a chronic ear infection. You should never simply ignore any of the symptoms of ear infection.

If they are left untreated, your condition could worsen. Check out our guide to the top signs to watch out for below.

1. Pressure on Your Ear

If you ever feel pressure in your ear, this can be very unpleasant. This could be a potential symptom of an ear infection.

This can feel as though your ear is blocked. This could simply be that you have experienced a change in altitude. 

However, if the sensation doesn’t cease after a while, it could be a sign that you have an infection in your ear.

2. Discharge From Your Ear

Naturally, your ear always contains fluid in the form of ear wax. However, if you discover any other type of fluid coming from your ear, this could cause concern.

If you have an ear infection, your eardrum tends to produce fluid that emerges from your ears. This could even be in the form of blood.

3. Develop a Fever 

A fever is when your body reaches a temperature of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the patient usually feels quite cold despite this.

Your fever could be a symptom of a wide range of health conditions, including flu or ear infection. If you have a fever and other ear infection signs, you need to speak with your doctor.

4. Loss of Hearing 

Up to one in eight adult Americans experience loss of hearing. But, this isn’t necessarily a result of an ear infection.

However, if you experience a sudden and temporary loss of hearing, this could be due to developing an ear infection in one or both your ears.

5. Difficulty Sleeping at Night

One in three Americans doesn’t get enough sleep most nights anyway. If you normally sleep like a rock, but you’re struggling to sleep recently, this could be a sign of an ear infection.

However, if you frequently experience insomnia or sleep apnea, your problems with sleeping are likely to be unrelated to your ears. 

6. Pain in Your Ears

There are numerous reasons why you might experience pain in your ears. However, ear infections can certainly cause severe pain.

This could be the first symptom that alerts you to your ear infection. 

7. Nausea and Vomiting 

If you have an ear infection, then you may also experience nausea and vomiting. Although this is rarely a symptom on its own, taken together with these other signs, it could be a common warning. 

Do You Have a Chronic Ear Infection?

Are you suffering from a chronic ear infection? Now that you’re familiar with the common symptoms, you know what to watch out for.

Check out our website for much more information on ear infections and more.