Ear infections occur when the middle ear becomes inflamed and fluid is trapped behind the ear drum. An ear infection often occurs alongside a cold, the flu, or some other type of respiratory illness, but it is possible to get an ear infection without any of these other issues present.

The ear is connected to the upper respiratory system by a pathway known as the Eustachian Tube. Because of this connection, when harmful germs grow in the nose or sinus cavity, they can travel up that tube to the middle ear. It is also common for the Eustachian Tube to become swollen or blocked, which will trap fluid in the ear where it will become stagnant and grow bacteria.

Symptoms of an Ear Infection in Infants and Children

Infants and young children cannot tell us they are having ear troubles, so watch for these symptoms:
• Irritability, and overall restlessness
• Excessive crying, especially when lying down
• Tugging or pulling the ear
• Fever
• Ear drainage
• Lack of appetite

Symptoms of an Ear Infection in Adults:

While less common, adults can also get ear infections. Watch for these signs:
• A sharp, stabbing pain, or a constant, dull pain, in the ear
• Hearing like you are under water
• Feeling like the ear is full
• Nausea
• Drainage from the ear

When to Seek Medical Advice

It is always better to seek professional medical advice when suffering from an ear infection. However, some ear infections will go away without treatment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, Quick Med Care is here to help:
• Any potential ear infection in an infant or child should be evaluated. More serious infections, or even hearing loss, can occur when ear infections are not treated
• If body temperature rises above 100.4
• Hearing seems to be affected
• Your child develops a stiff neck or becomes lethargic

Treatment Options

Only a qualified medical professional can determine whether or not there is an ear infection, and what has caused it.
Some ear infections are caused by a virus, and will just require waiting the virus out.
Those ear infections thought to be caused by bacteria will be treated with antibiotics.

Ways to Relieve Symptoms at Home

Ear infections can be very painful. To feel better quicker, try these tips:
• Lie on a heating pad, set on the lowest setting, or apply a warm compress
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. Follow dosing directions carefully for children
• Gargling with salt water can help clear the Eustachian Tubes
• Keep the air around you clean. Smokers with ear infections should refrain from smoking as much as possible, and children with ear infections should be kept away from second-hand smoke

As always, visit your nearest Quick Care Med location – we’re there when you need us!

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