What is an ear infection?

Acute otitis media or an ear infection is when a bacterial or a viral infection occurs in the middle ear. Middle ear is the air filled area that lies behind the ear drums and contains the tiny bones that vibrate enabling you to hear. Children are more susceptible to ear infections than adults. They are often painful due to build up of fluids and inflammation in the middle ear.

Causes

• The infection happens due to bacteria or virus in the middle ear
• The ear infection usually is a result of another disease like flu, cold or allergy.

Symptoms

• Ear ache
• Fullness of the ear
• Loss of hearing
• Tinnitus or ringing sound in the ear
• Ear discharge
• Vomiting
• Vertigo
• Nausea

Treatment

• Most ear infections are known to resolve on its own. Wait and see approach must be used based on the severity of the infection and the age of the patient.
• Warm compress may be done to reduce the pain
• Treatment of the associated infection must be done
• Medications to relive pain may be prescribed by your doctor
• Ear drops can be used under the advise of your doctor.
• Antibiotics may be use to treat the infection.
• Recurring ear infections may need drainage through ear tubes.

Prevention

• Prevention of colds and other diseases
• Avoid smoking and second hand smoke
• New born babies must be breastfed. The anti-bodies present in breast milk will help protect your baby against ear infections
• Vaccinations and seasonal shots may help prevent infections

What you can expect when you visit our clinics

1. Stop by our front desk to visit a certified Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant. No appointment is required.
2. Your medical practitioner will examine your medical background, go over your medical issues, perform an examination and supply you with an individualized plan for treatment. This might consist of non-prescription items or a medical prescription.
3. Towards the end of your visit to our clinic, your medical attendant will give you an overview, an invoice and some instructional material may be given.
4. The overview of your clinic visit can be forwarded to your primary health care provider with your authorization.