Ear infections occur when bacteria, viruses, or fungi affect the outer, middle, or inner ear, causing inflammation, discomfort, or fluid buildup. They are among the most common ear problems, particularly in children, but adults can also be affected. Typical symptoms include ear pain, discharge, hearing difficulties, fever, and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications, such as hearing loss or chronic infection.

Beyond infections, a wide range of ear conditions can impact hearing, balance, or comfort. Symptoms can vary widely — from muffled hearing and pressure to pain, ringing, or skin irritation. Some conditions are temporary, while others may require ongoing management or professional intervention. Understanding the nature and cause of an ear condition is essential for effective treatment and long-term ear health.

• Bacterial or viral infections
• Excessive earwax buildup
• Allergies or sinus congestion
• Environmental factors such as swimming, diving, or air travel
• Trauma or head injuries
• Chronic skin conditions affecting the ear canal
• Autoimmune disorders
• Rarely: Covid-19

Identifying the cause helps determine the most appropriate treatment, whether it’s medication, ear care techniques, or surgical intervention.

Ear infections can affect the outer, middle, or inner ear and vary in severity. Common types include: 

• Otitis
• Otitis media
• Otitis externa
• Serous otitis media
• Myringitis
• Cold-related ear problems
• Sore throat and earache
• Sinus infection-related dizziness
• Earache with fever
• Infected ear piercings
• Water in the ear
• Insect in the ear
• Earwax blockage
• Ear bleeding
• Pain from headphones or hearing aids

Symptoms may range from ear pain, swelling, discharge, blocked ears, muffled hearing, and fever, and early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications such as hearing loss or chronic infections.

Beyond infections, a wide range of hearing and ear conditions can affect hearing, balance, and overall ear health. These include:

• Ruptured eardrum
• Ear barotrauma
• Blocked ears
• Ear pressure
• Sinusitis
• Bubble-popping noise in the ear
• Vibration in the ears
• Valsalva manoeuvre-related issues
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• Cauliflower ear
• Ear grommets
• Surfer’s ear
• Ear dermatitis
• Ear eczema
• Ear psoriasis
• Autoimmune inner-ear disease
• Musical ear syndrome
• Ear cancer
• Lump behind the ear
• Swollen ear lymph node
• Pimple in ear
• Hot ear

Some conditions are caused by allergies, trauma, ageing, or chronic health issues, while others are related to skin disorders or environmental factors.

Importantly, many of these ear conditions can also lead to infections if left untreated, highlighting the importance of monitoring symptoms such as pain, swelling, discharge, muffled hearing, or skin changes, and seeking professional care promptly.

Ear infection symptoms can come in various forms, though some of the most common are throbbing pain, redness and ringing in the ears that could be tinnitus.

Other potential ear infection symptoms and signs include:

• Difficulty sleeping (especially in toddlers)
• Rubbing and pulling of the ears (especially in toddlers)
• Fever
• Decreased hearing
• Impaired balance
• Headache
• Blocked ears

Managing ear infections and ear conditions often requires a combination of professional care and home remedies. For mild cases, simple measures such as keeping the ears clean and dry, avoiding water exposure during swimming or showering, and using a warm or cool compress can help relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may also help manage earache.

It is important not to insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal, as this can worsen the problem or cause injury. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to see a doctor or hearing specialist for a proper diagnosis and targeted treatment.

For chronic or recurring conditions — such as fluid behind the eardrum, eustachian tube dysfunction, or recurrent otitis media — medical interventions like ear grommets (tympanostomy tubes) may be recommended to improve drainage and prevent further infections. Managing underlying factors, such as allergies, sinus issues, or skin conditions affecting the ear, is also essential for long-term relief.

Prompt attention and proper treatment can not only ease discomfort but also protect hearing and prevent complications, making professional assessment a key part of ear care.