When to Seek Urgent Care for Ear Infections: A Guide to Prevention and Treatment

Symptoms of Ear Infection

It is important to know the common symptoms of ear infections, so you know what to look out for. The symptoms of an ear infection can vary depending on the type of infection, but some common signs according to the Mayo Clinic include:

Pain in the Ear

One of the most common symptoms of an ear infection is ear pain. This pain can range from mild to severe and can be a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing sensation. It is common to feel the pain on only one side, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Although, it is possible to feel pain in both ears. The pain may come and go or be constant.

Fever

A fever is another common symptom of an ear infection. If you or your child has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it's a sign that the body is fighting an infection. In some cases, a fever may be the only symptom of an ear infection according to the Mayo Clinic.

Difficulty Hearing

An ear infection can also cause difficulty hearing. You may notice that sounds are muffled or that you can't hear as well as you normally do. This is because the infection can cause fluid to build up in the middle ear, which can affect the way sound travels through the ear canal, notes the Mayo Clinic.

Drainage from the Ear

In some cases, an ear infection may cause drainage from the ear. This can be a sign that the eardrum has ruptured, which can be painful and may require medical attention. The drainage may be clear, yellow, or bloody, and may have a foul odor according to the Mayo Clinic.

If you or your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can diagnose an ear infection by looking inside the ear canal with a special tool called an otoscope. The healthcare provider can then recommend the appropriate treatment to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Types and Causes of Ear Infection

Ear infections can occur in different parts of the ear and can be caused by various factors. Understanding the types and causes of ear infections can help you identify the symptoms and seek the appropriate treatment.

Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media )

Otitis media is a common type of ear infection that affects the middle ear. It occurs when the Eustachian tube (which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat) becomes blocked or swollen. This blockage or swelling leads to a buildup of fluid in the middle portion of the ear, according to the Mayo Clinic. This fluid can then become infected with bacteria or viruses, causing pain, fever, and other symptoms.

Outer Ear Infection (Otitis Externa)

Otitis externa (also known as “swimmers ear”), is an infection of the outer ear canal. It can be caused by bacteria or fungi and is often associated with water exposure, such as swimming or showering. Symptoms of otitis externa include ear pain, itching, redness, discharge, and trouble hearing.

Inner Ear Infection

An inner ear infection is an inflammation of the inner ear that can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Since the inner ear is responsible for balance and spatial orientation, an infection or inflammation can disrupt these functions—making vertigo a common symptom of an inner ear infection according to the Mayo Clinic.

Bacterial, Viral, and Fungal Infections of the Ear

Ear infections can be caused by different types of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, according to the Cleveland Clinic and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Bacterial infections are the most common cause of middle ear infections, while fungal infections are more common in the outer ear. Viral infections can also cause ear infections when they cause blockage or swelling of the eustachian tube.

Factors That Raise the Risk of Ear Infections

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing an ear infection, according to the Cleveland Clinic. These factors include:

• Age - Children are more prone to middle ear infections due to a developing immune system and eustachian tube.
• Seasonal allergies or colds - These can cause inflammation and blockage of the Eustachian tube.
• Exposure to cigarette smoke - Cigarette smoke can irritate the eustachian tube and mucus membranes of the nose, throat, and sinuses. This inflammation increases the risk of infection.
• Use of pacifiers - The APP notes that the use of pacifiers in infants and toddlers can increase the risk of middle ear infections
• Swimming or bathing - This can increase the risk of outer ear infections by allowing contaminated water into the ear canal.

Ear Infection Diagnosis

If you suspect you have an ear infection, it's important to get a proper diagnosis as soon as possible, so that you can start the right treatment, recommends the Cleveland Clinic. The diagnosis of an ear infection typically involves a physical examination of the ear, a medical history review, and sometimes diagnostic tests to confirm an ear infection or rule out other conditions.

Physical Examination

During a physical examination, your healthcare provider will examine your ears, looking for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. They may also use an otoscope to examine your ear canal and eardrum for signs of infection or fluid buildup, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If they suspect that your ear infection is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, they may continue their physical exam to include your throat, sinuses, and lungs.

Medical History

Your medical history can provide valuable information about your symptoms and risk factors for ear infections. Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms, including when the symptoms started, how severe they are, and if you've had ear infections in the past. They may also ask about any recent illnesses, allergies, or exposure to secondhand smoke. If the patient is a young child, they may ask if the child has been more fussy than usual or pulling at their ears, according to the AAP.

Diagnostic Tests

In some cases, your healthcare provider may order diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis of an ear infection. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these tests may include:

• Tympanometry - A test that measures the movement of your eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. This test can help determine if there is fluid buildup in the middle ear.
• Audiometry - This test measures your hearing ability and can help determine if there is damage to your inner ear.
• Cultures - Your healthcare provider may take a sample of any discharge from your ear to identify the type of bacteria or virus causing the infection.

Because ear infections can cause a great deal of pain and spread to deeper areas of the body, it is important to get a quick and proper diagnosis. Urgent care is a great option for getting an ear infection diagnosed and getting started on the right treatment.

Treatment of Ear Infection

Once you or your child has been diagnosed with an ear infection, the healthcare provider will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity and type of infection. Treatment options include antibiotics, pain relief medication, ear drops, surgery (in severe cases), and sometimes alternative treatments.

Antibiotics for Ear Infections

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial ear infections, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your doctor will determine the appropriate antibiotic based on your age, the severity of the infection, and any allergies you may have. The CDC notes that it is important to take the antibiotics exactly as prescribed and to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished.

Pain Relief for Ear Infections

Over-the-counter pain relief medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage ear pain and fever associated with ear infections. A warm compress may also provide relief, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relief medication if necessary.

Ear Drops for Ear Infections

Ear drops may be prescribed to treat ear infections caused by fungi or bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic. The drops are usually a combination of antibiotics and steroids and are applied directly into the ear canal. Similarly to oral antibiotics, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to finish the full course of treatment.

Surgery for Severe Cases of Ear Infections

If the infection is severe or does not respond to other treatments, surgery may be necessary. Surgery may involve the insertion of a small tube to drain fluid from the ear or the removal of infected tissue, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Additionally, small tubes may be placed in the ear canal to help prevent future ear infections. This is a common procedure for young children, according to the AAP.

Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Ear Infections

Some people find relief from ear infections by using alternative treatments such as garlic oil, or homeopathic remedies. While these treatments may seem cheaper or easier, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in treating ear infections. Additionally, ear infections that are not properly treated can cause more damage, such as hearing loss. For this reason, the Mayo Clinic, CDC, and AAP all recommend seeking medical evaluation if you suspect that you or your child have an ear infection.

Prevention of Ear Infection

There are some steps you can take to help prevent future ear infections. It is important to note, however, that not all ear infections can be avoided.

Keep Ears Clean and Dry

Keeping your ears clean and dry may help prevent ear infections caused by bacteria. Here are some tips from the CDC and Mayo Clinic to help you keep your ears clean and dry:

• Use a clean, dry towel to dry your ears after swimming or taking a shower.
• Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears, as they can push wax deeper into your ear canal and cause an infection.
• If you have excess earwax, talk to your doctor about how to safely have it removed.

Avoid Exposure to Allergens

Allergies can cause inflammation in the ear canal, which can lead to a build-up of fluid and thus an ear infection. Here’s what you can do to help alleviate some of the allergens in your environment:

• Keep your home clean and dust-free.
• Use an air purifier to help remove allergens from the air.
• Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritants.
• Speak to your doctor about if allergy medications are right for you.

Vaccination

The CDC notes that getting vaccinated is an important step in overall health, including preventing ear infections—particularly the pneumococcal vaccine and the flu shot.

Complications of an Ear Infection

In some cases, ear infections can be more than just painful and uncomfortable. If left untreated, they can lead to complications and related conditions that can cause permanent damage to your ear and overall health. Here are some of the most common complications and related conditions associated with ear infections, as noted by the Mayo Clinic.

Hearing Loss

One of the most common complications of ear infections is hearing loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. This can occur when the infection affects the middle ear and causes fluid to build up, which can interfere with the transmission of sound waves. Usually, you will regain normal hearing after your ear infection has healed. However, if left untreated, an ear infection can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Ruptured Eardrum

Another potential complication of ear infections is a ruptured eardrum. This can occur when the pressure from the infection causes the eardrum to burst. Symptoms of a ruptured eardrum include sudden ear pain, hearing loss, and fluid or blood draining from the ear. A ruptured eardrum can repair itself over time, but permanent hearing loss may still occur according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Meningitis

In rare cases, an ear infection can lead to meningitis, which is a serious infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. Meningitis is a very serious infection that can be fatal according to the Mayo Clinic.

Sinusitis

Ear infections can also lead to sinusitis, which is an infection of the sinuses. This occurs when the infection spreads from the ear to the sinuses, causing inflammation and congestion. Symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain, headache, and nasal congestion. It is also possible for an ear infection to develop as a result of sinusitis, according to the NIH.

Allergies

Ear infections can actually be related to allergies. If you have allergies, you may be more prone to ear infections, according to the Mayo Clinic. Allergies can cause inflammation in the ear, which can cause a blockage of the eustachian tube, thus causing infection.

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of an ear infection, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. In some cases, waiting too long to seek treatment can lead to more serious complications, as discussed above. If you’re not sure if you should seek care for an ear infection, here are the signs and symptoms you should look out for, according to the Mayo Clinic and AAP:

Severe Pain

If you or your child is experiencing severe pain in the ear, it is important to seek medical attention right away. This could be a sign of a more serious infection or even a ruptured eardrum. Pain is often the first symptom of an ear infection. For infants and young children, the AAP notes that fussiness and pulling at the ears may indicate ear pain.

Additionally, pain that is accompanied by fever, headache, or neck stiffness could be a medical emergency.

High Fever

A high fever is another sign that you should seek urgent care for an ear infection. The CDC notes that a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher indicates a fever. A high fever (101 degrees or above) can indicate a more serious infection that requires prompt treatment.

Drainage from the Ear

If you or your child has drainage from the ear, this could be a sign of a ruptured eardrum or a more serious infection. You should seek medical attention right away if you notice any pus or blood coming from the ear, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Difficulty Hearing

If you or your child is experiencing difficulty hearing, this could be a sign of an ear infection or a more serious infection.

Finding Urgent Care for Ear Infection

If you suspect that you or your child has an ear infection, it is important to get medical care quickly, so you can avoid a more serious infection or hearing loss. Urgent care is a great choice for getting fast and cost-effective medical care—especially for ear infections. Urgent care clinics have the equipment and highly-skilled medical providers who can evaluate you or your child and recommend the proper treatment. They can also make referrals to specialists like an Ear, Nose, & Throat doctor (ENT) if they believe you need a higher level of care or specialized treatment.

Key points to remember about ear infections, according to the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic:

• Ear infections are common in children, but they can also happen in adults.
• Symptoms of an ear infection may include ear pain, drainage from the ear, fever, and difficulty hearing.
• There are three types of ear infections: outer ear infections, middle ear infections, and inner ear infections.
• Treatment options for ear infections may include antibiotics, pain relievers, and ear drops.
• If you or your child has an ear infection, it is important to seek urgent care to prevent complications.