Understanding Ear Infection Types
Ear infections fall into two main categories, each requiring different care:
| Type | Description & Causes |
|---|---|
| Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear) | Infection of the outer ear canal—often from trapped moisture, water exposure, or inserting objects into the ear. Common in adults. |
| Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection) | Occurs when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, often following a cold or respiratory illness. Most prevalent in children. |
Extended forms—such as inner ear infections (e.g., labyrinthitis)—can affect your balance and hearing.
👉 According to Healthdirect Australia and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), middle ear infections are among the most common reasons Australian children visit a GP.
Common Causes That Trigger Ear Infections
- Viral or bacterial infections (like colds or flu)
- Sinus congestion or fluid buildup that reaches the ear
- Excess earwax, which can trap bacteria and lead to infection
- Moisture in the ear—often from swimming or water-related activities
Recognising the Symptoms
Both infection types can present similar symptoms, but there are key differences:
| General Symptoms | Otitis Externa | Otitis Media | Inner Ear Infection |
| Ear pain, discomfort, hearing loss, fluid discharge, fever | Yes | Yes | Sometimes |
| Redness, itching, pain on touch | Yes | Occasionally | Rare |
| Feeling of fullness or blocked ear | Yes | Yes | Possible |
| Dizziness, vertigo, nausea, balance issues | Yes | Rare | Common (inner ear involvement) |
We highly recommend seeking care from an Ear Nurse if symptoms persist for more than 2–3 days or if they include fever, hearing loss, or discharge.
⚠️ Seek urgent care if you or your child develops severe ear pain, high fever, sudden hearing loss, or discharge with blood. Guidance from Better Health Channel (Victoria State Government) stresses early treatment to prevent long-term hearing damage.
Medical Treatment
If symptoms persist or worsen:
- Grommets (ear tubes) may be surgically inserted to drain chronic middle ear fluid used only when necessary
- Antimicrobial ear drops target swimmer’s ear specifically
- Oral antibiotics may be needed for middle ear infections—especially in children
- Microsuction cleaning gently removes wax and infection debris under visual control—great for clearance and better medication delivery
Rare or Serious Cases:
- Inner ear infections (e.g., labyrinthitis) may require steroids, vestibular therapy, and close monitoring due to balance and hearing risks
- Surgical interventions like mastoidectomy may be needed for severe complications like mastoiditis
Preventing Ear Infections
- Avoid swimming in polluted or dirty water (especially relevant in summer and for children with grommets)
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or showering
- Keep vaccinations up to date (e.g., pneumococcal and flu vaccines, as advised by the Australian Government Department of Health)
- Practice good hand hygiene to reduce spread of infections
- Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, which increases ear infection risk in children
Why Trust The Ear Nurses at Crystal Clear Ears
- Certified Ear Nurses with extensive experience in ear health and microsuction treatments
- Microsuction offers precise, water-free cleaning that’s quick and comfortable—ideal for all ages and conditions
- Convenient Melbourne locations—Brighton, Epping, East Melbourne, Glen Waverley, Surrey Hills, and Truganina
- Fast, thorough ear health care: examinations, infection management, earwax removal, and personalised treatment plans
Ready to Book?
📞 Call us: 1300 260 750
📍 Visit us at our 6 locations: Brighton, Epping, East Melbourne, Glen Waverley, Surrey Hills & Truganina.
According to Healthdirect, ear infections are common and can affect people of all ages, especially children.