Otitis externa
Recurrent ear infections
Recurrent Ear Infections in Nottingham
Repeated ear infections can be frustrating and may need more than repeated courses of drops. Recurrent symptoms may be linked to moisture, eczema, wax, narrow ear canals, hearing aids, swimming, fungal infection or incomplete response to treatment.
What patients notice
Common symptoms and signs
Symptoms can overlap between different ear conditions. The safest first step is a careful clinical assessment so treatment is based on what is actually seen and heard during your appointment.
- Repeated ear pain or swelling
- Recurrent discharge or wetness
- Itchiness returning after treatment
- Blocked ears during infections
- Symptoms linked to water, hearing aids or cotton buds
Possible causes
What could be causing this?
The cause can vary from person to person. Your clinician will consider your symptoms, medical history and ear examination findings before advising on the most appropriate next step.
Fungal or bacterial infection
Ear eczema or dermatitis
Wax, debris or trapped moisture
Hearing aid irritation or narrow ear canals
How we can help
Doctor-led assessment at Nottingham Ear Clinic
Your doctor will look for triggers, examine the ear canal and eardrum, and may take a swab where clinically useful. Advice may include treatment, prevention steps, follow-up review or onward care where required.
Safety guidance
When to seek urgent medical advice
Most ear symptoms can be assessed in a routine appointment, but some symptoms should not wait.
- Sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear
- Severe or rapidly worsening pain
- Facial weakness, severe headache or neurological symptoms
- Marked dizziness, collapse or severe balance disturbance
- Swelling, redness or tenderness spreading around the ear
- High temperature, feeling very unwell, diabetes or reduced immune function
If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening or concerning, please contact your GP, NHS 111, an urgent treatment centre or 999 in an emergency.
Frequently asked questions
Helpful answers about recurrent ear infections and when to book an appointment.
Why do my ear infections keep coming back?
Recurrent infections may be linked to moisture, eczema, fungal infection, wax, hearing aid irritation, cotton bud use or incomplete response to previous treatment.
Can you take a swab for recurrent ear infections?
Yes. Where clinically indicated, swabbing can help identify bacterial or fungal causes and guide treatment.
Are follow-ups available?
Where clinically advised, follow-up can be arranged to check progress and ensure symptoms are improving.
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