An inner or middle ear infection is an inflammatory condition that is formally referred to as otitis media. Adults can develop inner ear infection symptoms, though this type of infection is most common among children. An adult who develops symptoms of an inner ear infection should seek further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
Ear Pain or Pressure
An infection within the inner ear can cause affected adults to experience sensations of pain or pressure as symptoms of this condition, explains the University of Minnesota Medical Center. When infectious pathogens enter the inner ear, they can inflame and irritate the ear canal. If this occurs, fluid or pus can build up within the inner ear, which can lead to sensations of fullness, pressure or pain within the affected ear. Painful earache symptoms can be uncomfortable and may affect a patient's ability to concentrate or remain alert while at work or school. Adults who develop earache symptoms should seek additional care from a doctor as soon as possible.
Fever
When the body is infected by viral or bacterial pathogens, the immune system raises the body's temperature to help fight the spread of infection. As a result, adults who develop an inner ear infection can experience fever as a symptom of this condition. Adults typically develop a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, explain medical professionals with MayoClinic.com. Fever symptoms can be accompanied by sweating, chills or headache in certain adults. Patients who develop fever symptoms in conjunction with ear pain or pressure should seek additional care from a physician.
Dizziness
The small bones within the inner ear allow the human body to remain balanced while sitting or standing. When an infection develops within the inner ear, the interaction of these small bones may be disrupted. As a result, adults can experience sensations of dizziness as a symptom of an inner ear infection. Episodes of dizziness can cause an affected patient to appear unstable upon standing up or sitting up. Adults who experience frequent or severe dizziness or faint should seek medical care immediately.
Hearing Loss
Inflammation within the inner ear due to infection can lead to temporary hearing loss in affected adults. Hearing loss can be mild to severe and may become worse if an adult with an inner ear infection does not receive treatment. This inner ear infection symptom can be disruptive and may limit a patient's ability to participate in his usual, daily activities. Adults who experience hearing loss for any reason should contact a medical professional for further evaluation and care.
