Ear Infection Treatment Near Hebbronville, TX
Earaches affect people of all ages, not just infants and young children. Because the pain could be caused by an ear infection, it is important to seek prompt medical attention, which can help prevent a perforated eardrum, hearing loss, and other complications. Regardless of the cause of your earache, though, the experienced and caring team at VitalMed Urgent Care near Hebbronville, Texas, can provide the treatment you need to help you feel better.
What Can Cause an Ear Infection?
Many ear infections develop in the middle ear, which connects to the back of the throat through a tiny channel (Eustachian tube). Fluids produced by the ear drain into the Eustachian tube, helping to keep the middle ear clean and dry. A blockage could allow fluid to build up in the middle ear, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria—and a painful ear infection.
In addition to an earache, the symptoms of an ear infection can include:
- Muffled hearing
- A sensation of fullness in the ear
- Clear or yellow fluid drainage
- Sore throat
- Fever
If these symptoms develop after a direct blow to the ear, an abrupt change in air pressure (which can occur while flying or scuba diving), or an object such as a cotton swab is inserted deep into the ear, you should call 911 or go directly to the nearest ER.
How Is an Ear Infection Treated?
Your provider at VitalMed will begin by asking about your symptoms and examining your ear with a special lighted instrument (otoscope). If we determine that you have a bacterial ear infection, we may prescribe an antibiotic. Your ear pain and other symptoms should begin to improve within a few days, and the underlying infection should clear up within a week or two. To improve your comfort in the meantime, you can apply warm compresses to your ear or take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Ear infections and other illnesses often strike at the worst possible time, but the experienced and compassionate providers at VitalMed Urgent Care are here for you every day during extended hours. We provide prompt ear infection treatment and other non-emergency urgent care services on a walk-in basis. To learn more, contact or visit one of our urgent care centers near Hebbronville, TX, today.
