Can you go deaf with a bad ear infection?

In some cases, severe or untreated ear infections can lead to hearing loss.

Possible ways an ear infection can cause hearing loss include:

- Damage to the eardrum: A severe infection can cause the eardrum to rupture or become perforated. This can lead to hearing loss that may be temporary or permanent.

- Spread of infection: If the infection spreads to the inner ear, it can damage the delicate structures responsible for hearing and balance. This can result in hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or dizziness.

- Blockage of the ear canal: A severe ear infection can cause excessive swelling and discharge, blocking the ear canal. This can lead to conductive hearing loss, where sound waves cannot reach the inner ear properly. Conductive hearing loss is usually temporary and resolves once the infection clears.

However, it's essential to note that hearing loss from ear infections is not common. Most ear infections can be treated successfully with antibiotics or other appropriate treatments, preventing severe complications like permanent hearing loss.