An ear infection happens when a bacterial or viral infection affects the ear. These can be really painful, due to fluid build-ups within the ear. This type of infections could be either persistent (chronic) or acute. Acute ear infections are painful, no matter how brief in terms of duration, while chronic ear infections can represent the cause of permanent harm to the middle and inner ear.
There are 3 main types of ear infections. They correspond to the 3 fundamental elements of the ear: inner, middle and outer ear, as follows:
- Inner ear infections. This affects the most internal part of your ear. The inner ear carries the labyrinth, which is responsible for balance. The cochlea, part of the labyrinth, is a snail-formed organ that converts sound vibrations from the middle ear into electric indicators. The auditory nerve transmits those indicators from the cochlea to the brain.
- Middle ear infections. The middle ear is the region that is located in the back of your eardrum. It is positioned between the eardrum and the internal ear. Within the middle ear, there are 3 tiny bones referred to as the malleus, incus, and stapes. These bones have the purpose of transmitting sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. A middle ear infection is also referred to as otitis media. This is due to fluid being trapped in the back of the eardrum, which can lead the eardrum to bulge. Along with an earache, you can experience a feeling of fullness in your ear. The symptoms of otitis media can include a fever, as well. You may additionally have hearing problems.
- Outer ear infection. The outer ear is that part of your ear that extends out of your eardrum to the outside of your head. An outer ear infection, also referred to as swimmer’s ear, is likewise referred to as otitis externa. It regularly begins as an itchy rash. The ear may also become painful, tender, red and swollen. This type of ear infection regularly develops due to water that remains in the ear after swimming or bathing. The moisture will become a favorable condition for bacteria to grow and multiply. If your outer ear is scratched by gadgets that you use or by touching it with your fingers or nails, a bacterial infection can occur.