An ear infection is the most common illness in childhood, according to MayoClinic.com. While most ear infections typically do not last very long and are uncomplicated, certain risks are involved when developing otitis media. The National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders states that an ear infection occurs when bacteria or a virus gets trapped in the middle ear, causing inflammation, pain and drainage. Preventing a serious ear infection complication begins with early intervention.
Hearing Loss
The most common ear infection complication is temporary hearing loss, according to MayoClinic.com. An ear infection causes excess fluid to build up behind the ear drum which can lead to muffled sounds and difficulty hearing. Most fluid from an ear infection subsides within a few weeks of the infection clearing up but if the fluid persists, it can lead to permanent hearing loss. While complete deafness is extremely rare, it is possible if an ear infection is left untreated and persists for an extended period of time.
Chronic Ear Infections
Chronic ear infections can develop as a result of an acute ear infection. This is commonly due to a situation where the infection isn’t completely dealt with or fluid remains in the ears. In small children, chronic ear infections may be the result of under-developed tubes that prevent the ears from properly draining, according to MedlinePlus.
Meningitis
A person with an ear infection runs the risk of developing meningitis, a serious condition that affects the brain and spinal chord, according MedlinePlus. If the bacteria or viral infection spreads into the lining around the brain, it is considered meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and needs intervention immediately while viral meningitis is not as urgent. A person with severe head pain, a stiff neck and nausea should talk to a medical professional for a proper diagnosis.
Perforated Ear Drum
A perforated, or ruptured, ear drum can result from an ear infection, according to MayoClinic.com. An ear infection causes excessive mucus, pus and fluid to build up in the ear, placing pressure on the ear drum. In rare circumstances, the pressure can cause the ear drum to rupture resulting in blood and pus being released from the ear. A ruptured ear drum typically heals on its own without further complications.
