Ear infections are among the most common reasons patients, especially children, visit urgent care during the winter months. While some infections are mild and resolve on their own, others require prompt evaluation to prevent complications. Knowing the signs, symptoms, and treatment options can help you make informed decisions when ear pain arises.
What Causes Ear Infections?
Most ear infections develop after a cold, sinus infection, or upper-respiratory illness. When congestion builds up, fluid can become trapped behind the eardrum, creating the perfect environment for bacteria or viruses to grow.
The most common types include:
- Acute Otitis Media: A middle-ear infection causing swelling and fluid build-up behind the eardrum.
- Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear): An infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by trapped water or irritation.
- Serous Otitis Media: Fluid behind the eardrum without active infection—often after a cold or allergies.
Common Symptoms
Ear-infection symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but often include:
- Ear pain or pressure
- Tugging or pulling at the ear (common in young children)
- Decreased hearing or muffled sound
- Fever
- Drainage from the ear
- Irritability or trouble sleeping
- Balance issues in some cases
Why Ear Infections Are More Common in Winter
Colds, flu, RSV, and other respiratory infections circulate heavily during the colder months. These illnesses cause congestion that can block the Eustachian tubes, trapping fluid behind the eardrum.
Children are especially susceptible because their Eustachian tubes are smaller, more horizontal, and more easily obstructed.
When to See an Urgent Care Provider
You should seek care if:
- Symptoms last more than 24–48 hours
- Pain is moderate to severe
- Fever accompanies ear pain
- Your child is unusually fussy or not eating/sleeping well
- Fluid or pus is draining from the ear
- You notice hearing loss or worsening symptoms
Our providers can examine the ear using an otoscope, determine the type of infection, and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on whether the infection is viral, bacterial, or simply fluid buildup.For Bacterial ear infections, antibiotics may be prescribed, especially for:
- Children under 2
- High fever
- Severe symptoms
- Persistent symptoms lasting more than 48–72 hours
For Viral or mild infections, providers may recommend:
- Children’s or adult acetaminophen/ibuprofen for pain
- Warm compresses
- Nasal saline to reduce congestion
- Close monitoring for symptom changes
For Swimmer’s Ear treatment may include prescription ear drops to reduce inflammation and clear infection. Although most ear infections heal without complications, untreated or severe infections can lead to:
- Ruptured eardrum
- Persistent hearing loss
- Spread of infection to nearby tissues
- Chronic fluid buildup
When to Go to the Emergency Room
Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Severe pain with high fever
- Facial weakness or drooping
- Swelling behind the ear
- Sudden hearing loss
- Symptoms of a spreading infection (redness, fever, severe headache)
Ear infections are extremely treatable, especially when addressed early. If you or your child develops ear pain, hearing changes, or symptoms that don’t improve within a day or two, Marque Urgent Care is here to help. Our providers can quickly assess the infection, offer relief, and ensure safe and effective treatment.