Ear Infection Treatment at Midwest Express Clinic

Ear infections, scientifically known as otitis media, predominantly affect the middle ear. This vital part of your ear connects to the back of your throat through the Eustachian tube, responsible for draining the fluid produced by your ear. When this drainage process is hindered by factors such as postnasal leakage, sinus infections, common colds, or allergies, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to a non-contagious ear infection. While ear infections are more common in children, adults can also experience them.

Symptoms of Ear Infections

Identifying the symptoms of an ear infection is crucial for prompt treatment. Common indicators include:

Fever
Ear pain or throbbing
Feeling of ear congestion or pressure
Mild hearing difficulties
Drainage from the ear, which can be clear or thick and yellow
Dizziness
Nausea and/or vomiting

Diagnosing an Ear Infection

When you visit Midwest Express Clinic, our skilled medical providers will conduct a thorough examination of both ears. This examination helps in detecting:

Redness, air bubbles, or leaking fluid in the middle ear
Possible perforations in the eardrum
A collapsed eardrum

In cases where the infection is severe or advanced, we may recommend a head scan to assess its extent beyond the middle ear. Additionally, a hearing test may be suggested to gauge any potential hearing loss.

Treatment Options for Ear Infections

Our medical providers will tailor a treatment plan to address your specific infection. Treatment options may include:

Warm compresses
Ear drops
Antibiotics
Ibuprofen

It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Bleeding from the ear
Severe hearing loss
Suspected eardrum perforation

For individuals experiencing recurrent ear infections, there is the possibility of eardrum scarring over time, potentially leading to hearing and speech difficulties. In such cases, tympanostomy tubes may be recommended. These tiny tubes are inserted into the eardrum to facilitate proper ventilation and drainage of ear fluid, preventing buildup. While they typically fall out naturally, they can also be removed by a healthcare provider when necessary.