Causes And Risk Factors For An Ear Infection

Changes In Air Pressure

One potential risk factor for an ear infection is changes in the air pressure. Pressure changes can also cause ear pain even if there isn't a bacterial or viral infection in the ear. When ear pain is related to pressure changes, the medical term is ear barotrauma. Individuals experiencing ear barotrauma might experience discomfort, pain, and issues with hearing. The majority of cases clear up themselves, but there have been more severe cases where the damage needs medical treatment. In the most serious cases, patients might require corrective surgery to repair the damage. The most common causes of ear barotrauma are taking off and landing in airplanes, or scuba diving to high water pressures and ascending too quickly. Some individuals experience acute symptoms, which come on quickly and subside after a little while. For others, though, the problem is chronic. It's also possible having an ear infection or blockage can lead to ear barotrauma rather than the other way around.

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