A chronic ear infection is inflammation in the middle ear that lasts an extended period of time or keeps coming back, according to Medline Plus. A chronic ear infection is a serious condition that could result in loss of hearing or deafness if left untreated, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. A chronic ear infection causes severe pain in the ear, produces drainage from the ear and could temporarily reduce a person’s ability to hear properly.
Under-Developed Tubes
The human ear has a tube called a eustachian tube that allows fluid to drain from the middle. If the tube is underdeveloped, as is common in infants and small children, the fluid can become trapped, causing the growth of bacteria, according to Medline Plus. Once the fluid is blocked behind the ear, the perfect environment exists for infection and viruses to flourish. In rare cases, surgery may be needed to install tubes in small children to help their ears drain properly.
A Cholesteatoma
A cholesteatoma is a small cyst or overgrown skin in the wrong area of the body. If a cholesteatoma develops within the ear, chronic ear infections are more likely, according to the University of Maryland. The cyst can cause blockage in the inner ear, leading to a buildup of fluid, which results in repetitive ear infections. This condition can become serious if not treated. In rare cases, surgery may be required to remove the excess skin.
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis is a long-term or repetitive inflammation of the sinus cavity. The sinus cavity is in close proximity to the inner and middle ear. When the sinus cavity is inflamed it swells, placing extra pressure on the ear. The constant pressure from the swollen sinus cavity can cause obstruction and irritation in the middle ear. Sinus infections that are left untreated can also spread into the ear, causing continual ear infections.
Structural Deformities
Structural deformities in the ear can cause chronic ear infections. If the ear drum, the bone structure or the tissue surrounding the ear has developed improperly, it could lead to infections. Structural deformities are commonly treated with medications to alleviate symptoms of ear discomfort but eventually will need to be surgically corrected to prevent a recurrence of an ear infection.
