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Untreated ear infections can damage hearing, affect balance, and in rare cases spread to nearby bone or even the brain, making timely evaluation and treatment very important. Children are especially vulnerable because repeated infections can interfere with speech and learning.
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What an ear infection is
Most common serious type is middle ear infection (otitis media), where fluid and germs build up behind the eardrum and cause pain, fever, and temporary hearing loss.
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Some infections are mild and clear on their own, but persistent pain, fever, or fluid for more than a couple of days needs medical review.
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Damage inside the ear
Ongoing fluid and inflammation can injure the delicate middle ear structures, leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss and sometimes tinnitus (ringing).
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Repeated or severe infections can cause a hole in the eardrum or chronic suppurative otitis media, where discharge and hearing loss become long‑term problems.
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Spread of infection
Infection can extend to the mastoid bone behind the ear (mastoiditis), which can destroy bone and cause high fever, swelling, and severe pain that requires urgent care.
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In rare but serious cases it can spread to tissues around the brain, leading to meningitis or brain abscess, which are life‑threatening emergencies.
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Effects on children and adults
In children, repeated untreated infections and hearing loss can delay speech and language, harm school performance, and cause behavioral and social difficulties.
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In adults, chronic infections can cause persistent pain, vertigo or balance problems, and a higher risk of falls, especially in older adults.
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When to seek medical help
Get prompt care for ear pain with fever, drainage from the ear, new dizziness, severe headache, or symptoms lasting more than 48–72 hours.
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Early evaluation, appropriate antibiotics when needed, and follow‑up hearing checks help prevent most long‑term complications.