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Treat Your Ear Pain and Pressure

Ear infections can be incredibly painful and present risk for inner ear damage. If you're experiencing ear pain, drainage, pressure, or a feeling of "fullness" in your ears, it's important that you seek treatment as soon as possible.

Possible Symptoms of Ear Infections

  • Pain inside the ear canal
  • Drainage or fluid from ear
  • Reduced hearing
  • Dizziness
  • Fever
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Types of Ear Infections

Inner

Inner ear infections can be the result of a virus or bacterial infection. These infections can cause hearing changes, noises in the ear, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

Middle

Also known as otitis media, a middle ear infection occurs when fluid is trapped behind the eardrum. Symptoms may include fever, limited hearing, earache, fluid drainage, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Outer

Also known as "swimmer's ear,' the outer ear infection is caused by trapped moisture in the ear canal and can usually be treated with medicated ear drops. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, itching, or discomfort when touching the ear.

Treatment & Prevention Options

  • Antibiotics
  • Ear drops
  • Ear Tubes (for chronic infections)
  • Prevention: Use a swim cap, avoid using cotton swabs in ear canal, treat allergies to avoid fluid buildup in the ear
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Ear Infection FAQs

Will I need ear drops, antibiotics, or both?

Depending on the location of your ear infection we may be able to treat your infection with drops only. Middle and inner ear infections usually require appropriate antibiotics. Your doctor will help determine the best course of action after performing an ear exam.

What are ear tubes?

Ear tubes are tiny synthetic tubes placed through the tympanic membrane (ear drum) in order to promote healthy drainage of fluids in the ear. Ear tubes are usually a secondary option for children with reoccurring ear infections or adults with chronic ear problems.

How long does it take for my ear drops to start working?

The medicated ear drops that your doctor recommends should relieve your symptoms within 48 to 72 hours. In the meantime, you can treat any pain with over-the-counter pain reliever. Contact us if your symptoms persist past this 72-hour window.

How long do I need to keep using my ear drops?

Your prescription ear drops should have instructions on how long to use the ear drops, typically for most infections 7-10 days of ear drops should be adequate. If you are unsure of how long to use your drops, please call the office to confirm length of treatment.

How do I know if my child has an ear infection?

If your child presents with a fever, lack of appetite, excessive crying, restless sleep, ear drainage, speech and language delay, or tugging at the ears, they could be suffering from an ear infections. Some children show minimal symptoms with chronic fluid on the ears. If you suspect your child has recurrent ear infections or a chronic infection contact us as soon as possible.

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Still Have Questions?

As your allies in wellness, our team strives to address all of your questions and concerns. Give us a call and we'll work with you to get the best answers.

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