Hearing Aids & Ear Infections

This type of ear infection, also known as “swimmer’s ear,” is usually caused by bacteria growing in the ear canal due to trapped moisture. If your hearing aid is trapping moisture inside your ear, this is the kind of infection you’ll most likely be dealing with. 

Symptoms of an outer ear infection include reduced hearing, discharge from your ear, a red or swollen ear canal, pain or itching, and a feeling of fullness or feeling “plugged up.” 

Middle ear infections are typically caused by viruses or bacteria that enter the middle ear, most often due to respiratory infection complications. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, can become blocked and trap fluid where bacteria can thrive. 

Symptoms of a middle ear infection include a fever, fatigue, sudden hearing loss, feeling nauseous, and earaches. Children are often susceptible to middle ear infections; if your child is refusing food, rubbing or pulling at their ear, or not reacting to sounds, visit their doctor as soon as possible. 

Feeling unsteady on your feet? An inner ear infection will affect your balance and hearing. These kinds of infections are often caused by viral infections like the common cold and can lead to hearing loss, dizziness, and balance issues. 

Symptoms of an inner ear infection include vertigo, hearing challenges, ringing in your ears, balance problems, a feeling of fullness in your ear or earaches, headaches, and fluid drainage.