Can Ear Infections Cause Hearing Loss? What You Need to Know

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons people, especially children, visit their doctor. While often temporary and treatable, recurring or severe ear infections can lead to more serious complications, including hearing loss.



Understanding how ear infections work and their impact on your hearing is an important step toward protecting your long-term ear health. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an Ear Infection?

Yes, ear infections can cause temporary or, in some cases, permanent hearing loss if left untreated or if they occur repeatedly.

Temporary Hearing Loss

Most people with an ear infection experience some degree of temporary hearing loss. This happens because fluid buildup blocks the sound from passing through the ear canal and vibrating the eardrum normally.

This type of hearing loss usually resolves when the infection clears and the fluid drains.

Permanent Hearing Loss

Chronic infections or untreated cases can lead to structural damage in the ear:

● Eardrum perforation: Repeated pressure can cause the eardrum to rupture

● Ossicle damage: The tiny bones that help transmit sound can erode or become dislocated

● Scarring: Scar tissue in the middle ear can reduce mobility and sound conduction

In these cases, the hearing loss may become permanent and require medical or surgical intervention.

Common Signs of Hearing Loss After an Ear Infection

If hearing loss persists beyond the infection, you may notice:

● Muffling or dullness in one or both ears

● Trouble following conversations, especially in noisy places

● Turning up the volume on devices more than usual

● Asking people to repeat themselves

● In children: delayed speech development or inattentiveness

If any of these symptoms continue for more than a week after an infection clears, it’s time to schedule a hearing assessment.

When Should You See a Hearing Professional?

It’s normal for hearing to feel “off” during an active ear infection, but it shouldn’t linger long after treatment. You should consult a hearing professional if:

●    Hearing loss persists more than a week after symptoms subside

●    You or your child have recurring ear infections

●    You experience ringing (tinnitus) or balance issues

●    You notice fluid draining from the ear

●    You have a history of chronic otitis media

How to Prevent Ear Infection-Related Hearing Loss

While not all ear infections are preventable, you can reduce the risk of complications by:

●    Treating infections early: Don’t delay seeing a doctor if symptoms arise

●    Finishing prescribed medications: Even if symptoms improve, complete the full course

●    Keeping ears dry: Avoid getting water into the ear if you’re prone to infections

●    Managing allergies and sinus issues: These can increase fluid buildup

●    Regular check-ups for children: Especially if they’ve had multiple infections

Good ear hygiene and early intervention go a long way toward preserving hearing health.

Don’t Ignore Lingering Symptoms

If you've had an ear infection and your hearing hasn’t returned to normal, don't assume it's nothing. Prolonged hearing issues can affect communication, mental health, and quality of life, especially in young children and older adults.

Getting a hearing test is fast, non-invasive, and informative. Whether your hearing loss is mild, moderate, or more complex, the team at Discover Hearing will work with you to find the right solution.

Book Your Hearing Test in St. Albert

Ear infections are common but hearing loss doesn’t have to be. At Discover Hearing, we provide advanced hearing assessments, custom treatment plans, and ongoing support to keep you hearing your best.

Contact us today to schedule your hearing test in St. Albert.