Ear infections are a common health issue; while they happen more often in children, adults can also experience them. When someone develops an ear infection, it often raises the question: Are ear infections contagious?
Before we dive into that answer, let’s investigate the different possible types of ear infections.
A middle ear infection (otitis media) occurs behind the eardrum in the air-filled space where tiny vibrating bones help transmit sound. This type of infection is often associated with fluid buildup, pressure, and pain. A middle ear infection typically develops due to a cold or respiratory infection that causes eustachian tube inflammation or blockage. This leads to fluid buildup that could potentially become infected.
Even if the underlying cause is a virus or bacteria and contagious, the ear infection itself is not.
An external ear infection (otitis externa), sometimes known as swimmer’s ear, affects the outer ear canal. It usually occurs when water, bacteria, or fungi get trapped in the ear canal, causing inflammation, redness, itching, and sometimes discharge. External ear infections are often linked to moisture or injury to the ear canal's skin.
No, ear infections aren’t contagious. However, some of the conditions that cause middle ear infections, including bacteria or a virus, could be.
Ear infections typically occur when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to fluid buildup. This fluid often accumulates because of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD). In fact, ALL middle ear infections occur because the Eustachian tube isn't functioning properly.
The Eustachian (yüˈstāshən) tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat, and is responsible for the following functions:
When it’s not functioning correctly, there can be fluid buildup that can get infected.
Besides a cold, allergies and sinus infections can lead to fluid buildup and Eustachian tube inflammation, resulting in an ear infection.
When someone has an ear infection caused by a cold or another respiratory infection, the virus or bacteria responsible for that illness can be contagious. For example, if a child in daycare gets a cold, that cold virus can spread to other children, and those who contract the virus may develop an ear infection as a result. However, they aren’t catching the ear infection directly.
While double ear infections are no more infectious as a single ear infection, they can still be a pain. Learn more about dealing with a double ear infection.
No, you cannot get a middle ear infection from a pair of headphones. Although incredibly rare, it is possible that you could get an external ear canal infection from bacteria or fungus that can live on the surface of headphones or earbuds.
It’s a good idea to routinely clean your headphones or earbuds, especially if you use them often or plan to share them with someone.
Seek immediate medical advice if you or a loved one has an ear infection and is experiencing:
This is not an inclusive list. If symptoms persist or don’t clear up, seek medical advice.
Ear infections can sometimes clear up on their own, but more severe cases may require antibiotics or other treatments recommended by a medical professional.
If you’re dealing with an ear infection, you may be tempted to put a Q-tip or other object into your ear canal to help, especially if there’s fluid. Remember, don’t put anything in your ear canal, or you can risk damaging the eardrum and further exacerbating your ear infection.
If you or your child is experiencing frequent ear infections, it might be worth discussing it with your primary care provider. Understanding the root cause of frequent ear infections can help uncover an underlying health issue and ensure your hearing remains unaffected in the long run.
Request an appointment at a hearing care provider near you.
