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Otitis Media Ear infections can be miserable. Middle ear infections, also known as otitis media, can affect anyone young or old. It is more common in children because of smaller Eustachian tubes that drain the ears into the back of the throat, but otitis media in adults can also happen for many different reasons. A middle ear infection can be caused by drainage from a cold, sinus infection, or even allergies. The build-up of secretions can grow bacteria inside the ear and cause swelling that blocks the Eustachian tube. This can cause unbearable pain. Sometimes the middle ear produces fluid weeks after an ear infection, which is called, “otitis media with effusion.” As the fluid sits over time, bacteria forms and causes the infection. The fluid may not ever drain completely and causes chronic otitis media. Untreated otitis media can lead to hearing loss, balance issues, and other problems. This article will help you understand more about otitis media in adults and what to do about it. Causes and Symptoms of Otitis Media in Adults Causes Otitis media is most often an inner ear infection that is sometimes caused by bacteria or viruses. These germs grow into the inner ear via the Eustachian tube from the throat. Normally, the inner ear drains into the throat when you have too much fluid from colds or allergies. In this case, the fluid goes up into the ear and up against the eardrum. When you have an upper respiratory infection in your sinuses, throat, or nose your Eustachian tube can become swollen and blocked. Then the fluid that needs to drain out stays inside the middle ear. Bacteria love to grow in this because it is warm and moist. The longer the fluid sits, the greater the chance of infection. This is most common in adults who have sinus issues or chronic allergies. Symptoms The main symptom of otitis media in adults is ear pain. Other symptoms include: • Stuffy feeling in ear • Difficulty hearing • Fever • Headache • Ringing of the ears • Dizzy Feeling • Nausea • Vomiting • Leaking fluid from the ear canal