There are a number of possible causes of ear infection, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Colds and allergies may also have a role to play when they cause inflammation of the Eustachian tube, blocking normal drainage of the ear and leading to middle ear infection. In many cases, ear infections recur after conventional treatment and may become chronic and difficult to get rid of. Recurring ear infections may also lead to permanent hearing loss if not treated properly. Common signs and symptoms of an ear infection are pain, throbbing or aching in one or both of the ears; itching of the ears; fever; reduced hearing; dizziness or loss of balance; nausea and vomiting; discharge or bleeding from the ears; difficulty falling asleep (especially in younger children). Conventional treatment for ear infections generally involves oral antibiotics and sometimes medicated drops. Though often effective in clearing the initial infection, antibiotics may compromise the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to recurrence and chronic infection. Antibiotics are also not effective against fungal infections of the ear. Natural remedies can effectively reduce the pain, inflammation, throbbing and discomfort of ear infections and treat the underlying causes without the side-effects and lowered immune functioning so common with antibiotic use.