Ear problems can make daily life unexpectedly difficult — voices sound muffled, conversations take extra effort, and even a dull ache can affect focus at work or school.
This guide by VR Speech and Hearing Clinic, Pune, explains the types of ear infections, their common causes, symptoms, and safe treatment options.
You’ll also learn when to book a hearing test in Pune and what to do if symptoms don’t improve.
What is an Ear Infection?
An ear infection is an inflammation or irritation inside the ear, usually caused by germs, trapped moisture, or allergies.
It can affect the outer, middle, or inner ear and may lead to pain, swelling, and fluid build-up that can reduce hearing clarity.
Common Causes of Ear Infections
Knowing the usual causes of ear infections helps prevent repeat episodes:
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Recent cold, flu, or sinus infection spreading to the ear
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Allergies causing nasal congestion and poor ear ventilation
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Water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing (“swimmer’s ear”)
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Using cotton buds or hairpins for cleaning, which scratch the canal skin
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Pollution, smoke exposure, or sudden air pressure changes during flights
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Diabetes or skin conditions affecting the ear canal
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Fungal growth in humid climates like Pune’s monsoon season
General Symptoms of Ear Infections
Typical signs of an ear infection include:
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Ear pain or pressure
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Fullness or popping sensation
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Temporary hearing loss
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Ringing (tinnitus) or dizziness
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Fever or fatigue
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Fluid discharge (if the eardrum leaks)
Because these can resemble earwax build-up or jaw pain, a quick ENT or audiologist check at VR Speech and Hearing Clinic Pune is advised.
Symptoms of Ear Infection in Adults
Common adult symptoms include:
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Ear pain worsening on chewing or touching
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Muffled or “distant” hearing
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Headache or heaviness around the cheeks
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Itchiness or tenderness at the ear opening
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Dizziness or imbalance
If these ear infection symptoms last beyond 2–3 days, book a hearing test in Pune or visit VR Speech and Hearing Clinic for professional care.
Types of Ear Infections
There are three main types of ear infections, depending on which part of the ear is affected.
1. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
This is the most common type. It affects the space behind the eardrum and often follows colds or allergies.
Symptoms:
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Throbbing ear pain
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Muffled hearing
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Crackling sound while swallowing
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Fever
Watch out for:
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Repeated infections
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High fever or severe pain
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Persistent hearing loss
💡 Book a follow-up hearing test at VR Speech and Hearing Clinic to track recovery after middle ear infection.
2. Outer Ear Infection (Otitis Externa)
Also called ear canal infection, it’s common in swimmers and humid climates.
Symptoms:
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Itchy, tender outer ear
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Pain when pulling the ear
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Watery or thick discharge
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Reduced hearing
Prevention Tips:
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Dry ears gently after swimming or bathing
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Avoid cotton buds — clean only the outer ear with a soft cloth
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Use doctor-approved drying drops if prone to swimmer’s ear
3. Inner Ear Infection (Labyrinthitis)
This affects the balance and hearing centers inside the ear, usually after a viral illness.
Symptoms:
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Sudden vertigo or spinning sensation
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Nausea and imbalance
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Muffled hearing or ringing (tinnitus)
⚠️ Any sudden hearing change requires urgent medical care. Visit VR Speech and Hearing Clinic Pune for prompt testing.
4. Bacterial Ear Infections
These can affect any part of the ear and often follow viral infections.
Signs include:
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High fever
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Pus-like discharge
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Intense redness and swelling
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Persistent pain
Only a doctor can confirm if antibiotics are needed — avoid self-medication.
Quick Pattern Recap
| Symptom Pattern | Likely Type |
|---|---|
| Throbbing ache after a cold + muffled sound | Middle ear infection |
| Pain on pulling the ear + watery discharge | Ear canal infection |
| Sudden dizziness + ringing | Inner ear infection |
| High fever + pus discharge | Bacterial infection |
How to Treat Ear Infections
Treatment depends on the infection site and cause.
Mild cases may settle with rest, while others need prescription ear drops or tablets.
Home Remedies & Self-Care
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Apply a warm compress for pain relief
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Stay hydrated and rest
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Keep the ear dry
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Avoid inserting objects or pouring oil
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Use over-the-counter pain relief (if suitable)
🚫 Avoid using home ear drops or oils unless a doctor confirms the eardrum is intact.
Medical Treatments
At VR Speech and Hearing Clinic Pune, treatment may include:
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Ear canal infection: Ear cleaning and antibiotic or antifungal drops
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Middle ear infection: Pain relief, antibiotics if needed, nasal sprays
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Inner ear infection: Medicines for vertigo and nausea
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Bacterial infection: Targeted antibiotics as prescribed
For best results, complete the prescribed treatment and book a hearing test after recovery.
When to See a Doctor
Visit an ENT or hearing specialist if you notice:
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Severe ear pain or swelling
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Discharge (especially with foul smell or blood)
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Sudden or one-sided hearing loss
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Vertigo with nausea
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Persistent symptoms beyond 72 hours
Children, older adults, and diabetics should seek prompt attention.
Conclusion
Ear infections are common but treatable.
Recognising whether it’s a middle ear infection, ear canal infection, or inner ear inflammation helps you act early.
Use home remedies for comfort, but if pain or hearing loss continues, book your hearing test at VR Speech and Hearing Clinic Pune.
Our audiologists and ENT partners provide accurate diagnosis, ear infection treatment, and hearing aid support — helping you hear life clearly again.
FAQs
1. Are ear infections contagious?
No, but colds that trigger them can spread through droplets.
2. Do all ear infections need antibiotics?
Not always. Some are viral and improve with pain relief and rest.
3. Can flying worsen ear pain?
Yes. Equalize pressure by swallowing or chewing gum during take-off and landing.
4. Will an ear infection cause permanent hearing loss?
Usually not. A hearing test confirms recovery if sounds remain muffled.
5. Can allergies cause ear infections?
Yes. Allergies can block the Eustachian tube and increase fluid buildup.
6. How can I tell if it’s wax or infection?
Wax causes fullness without pain or fever; infection adds pain, fever, or discharge.