Causes and Cures of Ear Infections

An ear infection can quickly progress from mild discomfort to sharp, throbbing pain — almost overnight. Not only that, but the pressure, muffled hearing, and irritation can make even simple daily tasks feel exhausting.

The good news? Most ear infections are treatable. Raj Bhayani, MD, at the New York Institute of Otolaryngology and Aesthetic Surgery, can also help you understand what causes them and how to prevent future flare-ups. 

What causes ear infections? 

Ear infections typically occur when fluid builds up in the middle ear and becomes infected by bacteria or viruses. This often happens after a cold, sinus infection, or allergy flare-up. 

Common causes of ear infections include: 

• Upper respiratory infections (like colds or the flu)
• Allergies that cause inflammation and fluid buildup
• Blocked Eustachian tubes
• Sinus congestion
• Exposure to smoke or environmental irritants
• Changes in air pressure (like flying) 

Children are especially prone to ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are smaller and more easily blocked, but adults can experience them, too. 

Signs and symptoms to watch for 

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection, but they often come on quickly. Common signs of an ear infection include: 

• Ear pain or pressure
• Difficulty hearing or muffled sounds
• A feeling of fullness in your ear
• Fluid drainage from your ear
• Fever (more common in children)
• Trouble sleeping due to discomfort
• Irritability or fussiness (especially in young children)

If symptoms are severe or don’t improve within a couple of days, seek medical attention. 

How ear infections are treated 

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your infection. Not all ear infections require antibiotics, especially if they’re viral. Dr. Bhayani may recommend: 

At-home care 

It’s helpful to prioritize rest and hydration, apply warm compresses to relieve pain, and take over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen). 

Medical treatment 

For medical treatments, options include antibiotics (for bacterial infections), prescription ear drops, and decongestants or antihistamines, if allergies are contributing. 

How to prevent future ear infections 

While you can’t prevent every ear infection, you can take steps to reduce your risk. 

Helpful prevention tips include: 

• Treat colds and allergies early 
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke exposure
• Practice good hand hygiene to reduce infections
• Keep your ears dry after swimming or bathing 
• Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations 
• Avoid inserting objects (like cotton swabs) into your ear canal 

For children with frequent infections, Dr. Bhayani may recommend additional interventions, such as ear tubes, to improve drainage. 

When to see a doctor 

It’s important to seek care if: 

• Pain is severe or worsening
• Symptoms last more than two to three days
• You notice fluid or pus draining from your ear
• You have a high fever
• Hearing changes persist

Early treatment can prevent complications and help you feel better faster. 

Ear infections are common, but they don’t have to be something you simply endure. If ear pain keeps coming back, it may be time to explore long-term solutions with Dr. Bhayani. To learn more, contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bhayani in either Brooklyn or Queens today.