Understanding Middle Ear Problems in Adults: Causes & Treatment

Ear infections aren't just for kids. Adults get middle ear problems, too. Most adult middle ear problems are caused by inflammation of the eustachian tubes.

Function

• Eustachian tubes are small tubes that regulate air in the middle ear by opening and closing behind the nose.

Considerations

• When the eustachian tubes get inflamed, fluid builds up in the middle ear, causing pain and infection.

Treatment

• Pain reliever is usually the only treatment necessary for adult ear problems; antibiotics are prescribed if ear infections are frequent.

Prevention/Solution

• Take a decongestant or allergy medicine when you have sinus problems to help keep the eustachian tubes from getting irritated and swollen.

Warning

• Middle ear infections are not common in adults and often clear up quickly, but recurrent problems (two or more per month) could be caused by a tumor and should be checked out by a doctor.