{"id":809,"date":"2022-06-24T00:58:22","date_gmt":"2022-06-24T04:58:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wilmingtonaudiology.com\/?p=809"},"modified":"2022-06-24T00:58:52","modified_gmt":"2022-06-24T04:58:52","slug":"the-connection-between-ear-infections-and-hearing-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wilmingtonaudiology.com\/the-connection-between-ear-infections-and-hearing-loss\/","title":{"rendered":"The Connection Between Ear Infections and Hearing Loss"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you or your child suffers from ear infections you are probably pretty familiar with the symptoms of ear pain, fever and ear drainage. Occasionally, hearing loss<\/a> can occur as well. Usually, this is temporary; however, chronic ear infections have the potential to cause permanent hearing loss.<\/p>\n

How Ear Infections Can Lead to Hearing Loss \"Older<\/h2>\n

Temporary hearing loss from a single ear infection is caused by fluid buildup in the middle ear. It may cause noises to sound muffled when you\u2019re at work or ordering breakfast at Sleeping Bird Coffee.<\/a> While it may be disorienting, this type of hearing loss should resolve after your infection clears up.<\/p>\n

Can Ear Infections Lead to Permanent Hearing Loss?<\/h2>\n

Studies have shown that in certain cases, chronic ear infections may increase your risk of developing sensorineural hearing loss, which is permanent.<\/p>\n

A study of 123 patients with chronic ear infections found that a \u201chighly significant association was found between the presence of chronic otitis media and sensorineural hearing loss<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n

An additional descriptive cross-sectional study conducted between 2013 to 2014 examined data from people who suffered from chronic suppurative otitis media. This is an ongoing ear infection that is accompanied by a ruptured eardrum. Researchers found that sensorineural hearing loss was reported in 52% of patients<\/a> and the frequency of hearing loss was found to grow as the length of the ear infection increased.<\/p>\n

Treatment for Ear Infections<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s important to visit a doctor if you or your child are exhibiting signs of an ear infection. While most infections clear up on their own, it\u2019s important for a doctor to rule out additional complications or decide if antibiotics or other treatments are needed.<\/p>\n

What if Hearing Loss Lingers After an Ear Infection?<\/h2>\n

Contact your doctor if hearing loss or any other issues linger for weeks after an infection has cleared up. They may refer you to an audiologist for a hearing test or full audiological exam to determine the problem.<\/p>\n

If permanent hearing loss has occurred, you may be prescribed hearing aids<\/a>. Your audiologist will work with you to find a pair that meets your individual needs and fits your current lifestyle.<\/p>\n

For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, contact Wilmington Audiology Services<\/span> today.<\/p>\n