Infections of the middle ear, or acute otitis media, are extremely common, especially in children. There are various types of ear infections caused by either bacteria or virus infections. While many ear infections go away on their own, persistent or painful infections may require treatment. If you or your child has an ear infection, treatment is available at Rapid Healthcare in Bolingbrook, IL.
Children two years old and younger are at the highest risk for acute otitis media. Blocked eustachian tubes can contribute to fluid buildup in the ear and infections – young children have very narrow eustachian tubes, which can be blocked easier. The bacteria or virus that caused the infection may spread from the throat or nasal passages from a cold, flu or allergy. Symptoms of ear infections in infants and toddlers may include:
- Ear pain
- Pulling at ears
- Trouble sleeping
- Trouble hearing
- Loss of balance
- Crying or irritability
- 100 or higher fever
- Fluid draining from the ear
Ear infection symptoms tend to come on quickly, but they may dissipate in as little as a few days. Adults with ear infections may have ear pain, fever and muffled hearing. If symptoms persist for more than a day or the pain is severe, it is important to seek treatment.
Same Day Ear Infection Treatment
If you or your child have symptoms of an ear infection, especially if there is fluid or pus draining from the ear, come see us at Rapid Healthcare. We can perform diagnostics to determine the severity of your infection. Since many ear infections will go away on their own, antibiotics are not always needed. Our medical team will discuss the possible treatment options, which can include pain medications, antibiotics and ear drops.
Ear infections usually resolve within a few weeks. While most do not cause long-term complications, there are risks of hearing damage and of infection spreading to other areas. It is important to seek medical treatment for you or your child when you have symptoms of an ear infection to minimize risks of health complications.
Ear infections can be painful, but there are effective treatments available. If you need to see a doctor today for ear infection symptoms, contact us at Rapid Healthcare. We offer primary medical treatment with the convenience of a walk-in clinic at our facility in Bolingbrook, IL.