Ear infections can be painful and frustrating, especially when they seem to keep coming back. While many people experience them occasionally, some suffer repeated bouts that make daily life uncomfortable. So, can ear infections happen multiple times in a row? The short answer is yes. And in some cases, this recurring issue may point to something more serious, like a chronic ear condition.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ear infection, seeking medical care is the best way to ensure that you’re properly treating it. At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our walk-in clinic offers fast and convenient care for minor conditions like ear infections, all on a walk-in basis. Simply walk into the clinic, or save your spot online using the button below.
Common Symptoms of an Ear Infection
Ear infections are common conditions that can affect patients of all ages. They occur when moisture is trapped within the ear canal, which leads to bacterial growth and an infection forming. Children sometimes experience more frequent cases of ear infections because their small ear canals are prone to trapping moisture more easily.
The symptoms of an ear infection can be different from those of an acute illness.
Common symptoms of an ear infection include:
- Persistent ear pain or discomfort
- Drainage from the ear (which may be clear, yellow, or bloody)
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
- Difficulty hearing or muffled sounds
- Irritability or trouble sleeping in young children
- Fever (though it's more common in acute infections)
What Does it Mean When an Ear Infection is Chronic?
A chronic ear infection occurs when the ear becomes infected or inflamed for an extended period or keeps recurring. In most cases, ear infections will clear up in about a week with proper treatment. However, a chronic one can linger for weeks or return frequently. Some people may experience fluid buildup, hearing loss, or damage to the eardrum if the condition goes untreated.
Treatment & Prevention Tips for Ear Infections
Treating an ear infection is simple if you diagnose your symptoms early. Your medical provider will examine your inner ear and look for inflammation and other potential signs of an infection. In most cases, ear infections can be treated easily with antibiotics and ear drops. However, chronic ear infections can be more difficult to treat depending on the severity and the underlying cause. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort, while warm compresses may soothe the ear area. For those with frequent infections, a specialist (ENT doctor) might evaluate the structure of the ear or recommend additional testing to determine the underlying cause of the repeated infections.
If an ear infection doesn't improve within a few days or if symptoms worsen, it's essential to seek urgent care. Untreated infections can lead to serious complications such as hearing loss, eardrum rupture, or the spread of disease to other parts of the body. Fast medical attention ensures proper diagnosis, targeted treatment, and peace of mind, especially when infections strike repeatedly. Don't ignore persistent ear pain; your ears are too important to take chances with.
Walk Into AFC Bedford for Same-Day Ear Infection Treatment
If you’re experiencing discomfort in the ear and think you could be developing an ear infection, you should seek medical care for proper symptom diagnosis and treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our clinic is equipped to provide care for ear infections, and we treat patients of all ages!
We never require patients to schedule an appointment in advance. Simply walk into the clinic for rapid same-day care, we have short wait times. Our clinic works with most medical insurance plans, and we offer competitive rates for patients paying out-of-pocket for their healthcare. For more information, call the clinic directly at (781) 430-8161.
