Ear pain is one of the most common reasons children are taken to the doctor. Parents often worry that any sign of discomfort means their child has an ear infection. While infections are indeed a frequent cause, ear pain can result from a variety of other issues as well. Understanding the possible reasons behind ear pain and the symptoms of true ear infections can help parents respond quickly and appropriately.
If your child is experiencing ear pain and you’re worried they could have an ear infection, get same-day care by walking into AFC Urgent Care Burlington. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers convenient same-day care for patients of all ages. We don’t require patients to schedule an appointment in advance, just walk into the clinic or save your spot online in advance using the button below.
Does Ear Pain Always Indicate an Infection?
Not always. Ear pain in children can stem from several different conditions. While middle ear infections (otitis media) are common, pain may also be caused by swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), allergies, sinus infections, teething, or even jaw problems. Sometimes, a sore throat or congestion can create pressure that radiates to the ears, making it feel like an ear infection when it’s not.
Typical signs of an infection include fever, irritability, fluid drainage from the ear, and trouble sleeping due to pressure buildup. If your child has only mild discomfort without these additional symptoms, the pain may be temporary and unrelated to an infection.
Treatment Options for Ear Infection Symptoms
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the ear pain. In many cases, ear infections can resolve on their own within a few days. Doctors may recommend monitoring symptoms before prescribing antibiotics, especially if the disease is mild. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease discomfort, while warm compresses may also provide relief.
To prevent ear infections, parents can encourage healthy habits such as frequent handwashing to limit colds, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke, and keeping children’s ears dry after swimming or bathing. For infants, breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of infections, as it strengthens the immune system.
Walk Into AFC Urgent Care Burlington for Same-Day Ear Infection Treatment
Ear pain in children doesn’t always mean an infection is present, but watching for symptoms like fever, fluid drainage, or persistent discomfort is essential. Proper treatment and preventive steps can reduce the risk of recurring ear problems.
At AFC Urgent Care Burlington, our walk-in clinic offers families with peace of mind with convenient and affordable same-day care for patients of all ages. Simply walk in when it’s convenient. We work with most medical insurance plans, and have affordable rates for self-paying patients. To learn more, walk into the clinic or give our team a call at (781) 270-4700.
