The pressure in your inner ear has been building throughout the day, making it hard to hear. The discomfort persists no matter how much you tug at your earlobe or try to pop your ears. You feel a constant ache in your ear canal that won’t subside, and the world around you seems muffled as if you’re underwater.
These are common symptoms of an ear infection. At Integrity Urgent Care, we’re here to help you navigate the discomfort and find the right treatment quickly.
What Is an Ear Infection?
Ear infections (otitis media) occur when you get a bacterial infection behind the eardrum, causing inflammation. Aside from the common cold, ear infections are the leading cause of children’s visits to the doctor. If your child has a fever and is tugging on their ears, it may be a sign that they are experiencing the pain and discomfort of an ear infection.
Types of Ear Infections
The most common type of ear infection occurs in the middle ear (acute otitis media), the space between the eardrum and the inner ear. If fluid becomes trapped in this space – which can occur after a viral or bacterial infection – it can create an environment where bacteria can grow, leading to acute otitis media.
Outer ear infections, also known as otitis externa or swimmer’s ear, are caused by inflammation of the ear canal between the outer ear and the eardrum due to bacteria growth. Symptoms include pain and swelling of the outer ear, tenderness when chewing, and affected hearing.
Are Ear Infections Contagious?
Ear infections are not contagious. However, the viruses and bacteria that can lead to middle and inner ear infections, such as those responsible for the flu or upper respiratory infections, can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Children under the age of 8, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, those frequently exposed to viruses, and people with a genetic tendency toward ear infections are at higher risk. Outer ear infections (swimmer’s ear) are caused by inflammation from environmental factors like moisture, bacteria, or fungi and therefore are not contagious either.
How to Prevent an Ear Infection
You can help your family avoid painful ear infections by promoting healthy hygiene habits such as handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. If you or your child develops a cold, flu, or sinus infection, it’s important to treat it early, as these conditions can lead to middle ear infections. Take a preventative approach by getting an annual flu shot.
When to Seek Medical Help for an Ear Infection
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms such as fever, difficulty hearing, persistent ear pain, or discharge from the ear, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Integrity Urgent Care provides fast, effective care with the convenience you need, especially when you can’t wait for an appointment with your primary care physician. Our experienced medical staff will quickly diagnose the issue, whether it’s a viral or bacterial ear infection, and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Ear Infection Treatment with Integrity Urgent Care
In the case of a bacterial infection, we may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection, offer pain relief options, and provide advice on how to prevent future ear infections from occurring. With our extended hours and walk-in availability, Integrity Urgent Care ensures that you can get the care you need when you need it, without the wait. Don’t let ear pain or discomfort linger – visit us today for prompt, professional care. Find a convenient location near you.
