Earache Treatment in Laredo, TX

Earaches are common among infants and children, but adults can get them, too. The resulting pain may be sharp and burning or dull and throbbing. Often, the discomfort is tolerable and goes away on its own. However, if an earache is severe or lasts longer than a few days, it is best to see a medical professional.

You can receive fast and effective earache treatment at VitalMed Urgent Care. If you have ear pain, simply visit one of our walk-in clinics in Laredo, Texas, where you will be promptly seen by an experienced medical provider who will help you find relief.

What causes ear pain? Some common sources include:

A Middle Ear Infection

A cold or flu virus or a seasonal allergy can trigger your body to release histamine, a chemical that causes your nasal membranes to produce a lot of mucus. This protective fluid traps bacteria and contains antibodies to help fight off infection.

Nasal congestion can sometimes block one or both of your Eustachian tubes, which normally allow fluid to drain from your ears. If mucus builds up behind your eardrum, bacteria can become trapped there and cause a painful infection.

If you are diagnosed with a middle ear infection, we can suggest appropriate earache treatment, which may involve a course of antibiotics (for a bacterial ear infection) or a nasal decongestant, antihistamine, or pain reliever to help you feel better.

Earwax Buildup

Cerumen, or earwax, is an antibacterial substance produced by your body to help keep your ears clean and lubricated. Normally, as you chew and talk, your natural jaw movements help earwax pass out of your ears and flake off your skin. However, if you clean your ears with a cotton-tipped swab or another object, you may push earwax deep into your ear, where it can build up, harden, and block your ear canal. If you have an earache due to earwax build up, we can safely remove the hardened wax.

Swimmer’s Ear

A painful irritation of the outer ear canal, swimmer’s ear can develop if water stays in your ear after you bathe or swim. In addition to causing itching and swelling, the trapped moisture can create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. If you are diagnosed with a bacterial ear infection, we may prescribe antibiotic ear drops to treat the infection, and possibly corticosteroid ear drops to help reduce swelling caused by swimmer’s ear.

Ear Barotrauma

Also known as airplane ear, ear barotrauma can cause a temporary earache due to rapid changes in air pressure during a flight. Your ears should naturally adjust after you land, but if they don’t and your discomfort lasts longer than a few days, it’s best to seek medical attention.

We’re Here for You

You don’t have to suffer from ear pain. Come to VitalMed Urgent Care in Laredo, TX, for earache treatment today.