Yes, Adults Can Get Ear Infections: How to Spot Symptoms in Adults and Home Remedies That Can Help

Ear infections are not common in adults, but they’re not impossible either. While children have a more horizontal angle of the ear canal and the Eustachian tube (ET), they are more likely to experience ear infections. As we age, our canal and ET start to have more of an angle which allows fluid to drain better and keep both sides of the ear clear. Still, in some circumstances adults can develop ear infections and uncomfortable symptoms, and it’s important to be able to identify the signs. Here, learn how to recognize the symptoms and what ear infection home remedies you can try.

What causes ear infections in adults?

There are two types of ear infections: internal otitis media (IOM) and external otitis media (EOM). IOM is an infection behind the eardrum, explains Sarah Lundstrom, AuD , Audiologist at HearCare Audiology. This is usually caused by a blockage buildup in the Eustachian tube, often in conjunction with an upper respiratory type of infection, she says.

EOM is an infection in the ear canal and is typically found when there is bacteria or fungus that gets into the canal and the ear can't fight it or remove it. This is often referred to as "swimmers' ear,” which impacts children as they are prone to infections from swimming in bodies of water that harbor bacteria.

“There are many different factors that can cause this, including smoking, a cold, allergies, air pressure fluctuation, excess mucus and sinus infections,” explains Hannah Samuels, Audiologist at UK-based Boots Hearingcare. “Whilst some ear infections aren’t necessarily preventable, such as those caused by other illnesses, there are ways to reduce the risk of an infection caused by external factors. For example, never sticking anything in your ear — this includes cotton buds. Also, using ear plugs when you swim and avoiding any water entering the ear canal.”

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Symptoms of ear infections in adults

An ear infection is typically noticeable. You’ll experience pain or fullness and pressure in the ear or throat and neck area, says Lundstrom. Additionally, sound may seem muffled, or your own voice may sound different as if it’s echoing in your head.

Ear pain can occur both inside and outside the ear, Samuels adds. Swelling, tenderness, some level of hearing loss, nausea and vomiting, headaches and discharge from the ear are also possible, she notes.

“You won’t necessarily experience all of these symptoms, as it’s different for everyone, but any of these could be a sign that you have an ear infection,” she explains.

Home remedies to relieve pain for ear infections in adults

Ear infections can resolve themselves but may need medical attention such as antibiotics or antifungal medication, says Lundstrom. If you have frequent ear infections it may be recommended to have tubes in their eardrums to help relieve pressure and drain fluid. Occasionally, untreated infections can lead to a ruptured eardrum. However, in a regular infrequent case, there are a few natural ways to relieve ear infection pain and symptoms.

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1. Try the hair dryer method

“As ear infections are caused by fluid sitting in the middle ear, you can help dry any unwanted liquid by using a hair dryer near the affected ear (yes, really!),” says Samuels. “This will particularly help avoid any further liquid entering, e.g., after a bath, and reduce any discharge. If you are trying this method, it’s important to use a low heat and be really gentle to ensure you don’t cause further damage.”

2. Gently move your neck

Another technique to help relieve pressure in the ear is by doing light neck exercises and rotations, Samuels offers. Just remember to make each movement slowly, rotating your head neck both ways without straining too hard, she says.

3. Head to the pharmacy

Nasal rinse, decongestants, nasal spray or ear irrigation are a few common home treatment options, Lundstrom says.

There are also over-the-counter pain relievers that will help, adds Samuels. Ibuprofen and paracetamol can reduce any pain you’re feeling, but you should follow dosing instructions on the packaging and stay connected with your doctor.

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan .