ENT · Ear, nose and throat
Ear infection
Understand ear infections, where they occur and signs of complications.
Editorial publication · Medical review pending.
Understand
An ear infection or otitis affects the ear canal or the middle ear behind the eardrum.
Possible symptoms
Pain, fever, reduced hearing, pressure, itching or discharge may occur; a young child may be irritable.
Causes and associated factors
Viruses or bacteria can reach the middle ear after a cold; water, irritation or injury favour outer-ear infection.
Diagnosis
A professional examines the canal and eardrum with an otoscope and considers age and symptoms.
Tests
Tests are often unnecessary; swabs, audiometry or tympanometry are used for persistent or complicated cases.
Course of the condition
Many infections improve within days, but some recur or leave fluid and temporary hearing loss.
Care options
Pain relief and keeping the ear dry help; drops or antibiotics are prescribed according to type and severity.
When to consult
Seek advice for persistent pain, discharge, high fever, hearing loss or if the person is medically vulnerable.
Urgent help
Swelling around the ear, severe illness, marked vertigo, new facial weakness or intense pain needs urgent assessment.
Questions for your doctor
- How will the cause of my symptoms be confirmed?
- Which hearing, nose, throat or balance tests are useful?
- Which options, limits and complications should we compare?
- What follow-up should be arranged?
- Which signs require urgent assessment?
Continue reading
A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.
Our articles
Discover all Elysium Editions →Sources
- NHS — Ear infections
Accessed on September 15, 2026