Though adults are not affected as frequently as children, it is important for adults to be aware of how adult ear infection can affect them. Adult ear infection is caused by infection in Eustachian tube, near inner ear. The Eustachian tube connects inner ear to nasal passages in order to drain fluid from ears and equalize pressure between outside and inside of body, but when fluid or mucous builds up in Eustachian tube, it is an easy target for infection.

There are many situations in which adult ear infection can surface. A cold can cause fluid build up and infection in Eustachian tube. Post nasal drip may also contribute. An adult does not necessarily need to be sick to get adult ear infection. Often, infection is caused by mucous being blown into Eustachian tubes by blowing nose or failing to clean liquid out of ear with a cotton swab after showering.

In one of every four cases in children, ear infection is not caused by a bacterial infection but by a viral infection. Viruses often cause adult ear infection as well. Viral infections are much more difficult to eliminate.

Adult Ear Infection Complications

However adult ear infections are contracted there are complications to be aware of. If these complications are caught early, infection can be more easily dealt with. Complications associated with adult ear infection include fluid in ear, pressure, and pain.

Part of reason for pressure and pain is that tissue in inner ear swells due to infection or trapped fluid. Often, adenoids also swell due to infection. The swelling pushes into ear.

I was no exception to this rule. And when I suffered with it, I was living in a household of 7 others. But here is a few tips you can try that I found worked for me.

Exercise - I don't recommend doing this a few hours before you go to bed, otherwise it will have opposite effect. But if you do this earlier on towards day, it will help burn up some of your energy.

Don't go to bed until you are actually tired