Sick Note for Ear Infection: When Adults Need Time Off Work
Ear infections aren't just for kids. Adult ear infections cause severe pain, vertigo, and hearing loss that can prevent working. Here's how to get documentation.
## Adult Ear Infections and Work
While ear infections are more common in children, adults can develop painful ear infections that significantly impact their ability to work. The combination of severe pain, hearing loss, dizziness, and fever can make working impossible — particularly in communication-heavy or balance-dependent roles.
### Types of Adult Ear Infections
| Type | Symptoms | Duration |
|------|----------|----------|
| Outer ear (swimmer's ear) | Pain, swelling, discharge | 7-10 days |
| Middle ear (acute otitis media) | Severe pain, fever, hearing loss | 5-7 days |
| Inner ear (labyrinthitis) | Vertigo, nausea, hearing loss | Days to weeks |
### Why Ear Infections Prevent Working
- **Severe pain** — throbbing, constant pain that prevents concentration
- **Hearing loss** — temporary but significant, affecting communication
- **Dizziness/vertigo** — particularly with inner ear infections, making driving and physical work dangerous
- **Fever** — indicating active infection
- **Pain medication effects** — drowsiness, impaired judgment
### Jobs Most Affected
- **Phone-based roles** (call centres, sales) — hearing loss prevents communication
- **Drivers** — dizziness makes driving dangerous
- **Healthcare workers** — hearing impairment affects patient safety
- **Teachers** — cannot hear students or project voice
- **Construction/trades** — balance issues create fall risk
### When You Need Documentation
You'll need a sick note if:
- Pain and hearing loss prevent you from performing your job
- You have vertigo/dizziness making driving or physical work unsafe
- You miss more than 1-2 shifts
- Your employer requires documentation for absences
### Getting Documentation
MedLetter provides absence documentation for ear infections:
1. Describe your symptoms (pain level, hearing loss, dizziness)
2. Note how the infection affects your specific job duties
3. A licensed physician reviews your submission
4. Receive documentation via email
### When to Seek In-Person Care
Visit a clinic if:
- You need antibiotic treatment (MedLetter cannot prescribe)
- You have discharge from the ear
- Symptoms are worsening after 48 hours
- You have sudden complete hearing loss
- You have severe vertigo with vomiting
- You have facial weakness or drooping
**Important:** MedLetter provides documentation for work absences only. If you need treatment for an ear infection, please visit your physician or a walk-in clinic.
[Get Your Documentation →](/get-started/sick_note)