Do You or Your Child Have an Earache?

Few things are more uncomfortable than an ear infection. Whether it’s your toddler crying through the night or you dealing with sharp ear pain, ear infections are one of the most common reasons families in Lewisville, TX turn to urgent care.

At AFC Urgent Care near Lewisville, we see ear infections daily. Parents come in not sure whether their child needs antibiotics, adults show up with severe ear pain after swimming, and travelers often stop by before a flight when ear pressure becomes unbearable. Our medical providers are here to help you feel better quickly—without the long wait for a primary care appointment.

What Exactly Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection happens when bacteria or viruses cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the ear. There are two main types:

1. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): Fluid builds up behind the eardrum. This is the type most children get after a cold.

2. Outer Ear Infection (Otitis Externa or “Swimmer’s Ear”): Irritation and infection of the ear canal, often from swimming or moisture trapped inside.

Both can be painful, but they are treated differently—which is why a proper diagnosis at urgent care is so important.

Why Are Ear Infections So Common in Lewisville?

Families in Lewisville, Carrollton, and Flower Mound know ear infections are frequent in kids. This is because children’s ear tubes are smaller and more horizontal than adults’, making it easier for fluid to get trapped.

In adults, ear infections can happen after:

• Allergies that cause fluid buildup
• Swimming at local pools or lakes around Lewisville
• Frequent flying in and out of DFW Airport (air pressure changes)
• Colds or sinus infections that spread

Symptoms of an Ear Infection

Not sure if your earache is an infection? Here are the common signs:

• Throbbing or sharp ear pain
• Fluid drainage (clear, yellow, or bloody)
• Trouble hearing
• Fever or chills
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Irritability or crying in young children
• Tugging at the ear (kids often do this when it hurts)

When Should You Visit Urgent Care for an Ear Infection?

Some mild earaches improve on their own, but you should come to AFC Urgent Care Lewisville if:

• The pain is severe or lasts more than a couple of days
• A child under 2 years old shows symptoms
• There is fluid, pus, or blood coming from the ear
• You have hearing loss or dizziness
• A high fever accompanies the earache

Prompt treatment can prevent complications such as permanent hearing damage or a ruptured eardrum.

How We Diagnose Ear Infections at AFC Urgent Care Lewisville

At our urgent care center, providers perform a quick but thorough exam:

• Otoscope exam: Checking inside the ear for fluid, swelling, or redness
• Fluid check: Looking for pus or drainage in the ear canal
• Hearing assessment: If hearing seems affected
• Sinus/nasal exam: Since many ear infections are linked to sinus infections or colds

With these tools, we can determine if the infection is bacterial, viral, or caused by water exposure.

Treatment Options for Ear Infections

Treatment depends on the type and cause of infection.

For Bacterial Ear Infections

• Antibiotics: Prescribed when necessary
• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort
• Rest and hydration: Supporting immune recovery

For Viral Ear Infections

• Often resolve without antibiotics
• Symptom relief with pain relievers, warm compresses, and rest
• Monitoring: We’ll let you know what to watch for in case it worsens

For Swimmer’s Ear

• Antibiotic ear drops to clear infection
• Cleaning and drying of the ear canal
• Avoid swimming until healed

At-Home Relief Tips While You Recover

Even after your urgent care visit, there are simple steps to help recovery:

• Place a warm washcloth on the affected ear
• Stay hydrated to thin mucus
• Elevate your head to ease pressure
• Avoid sticking cotton swabs or objects in the ear
• Rest to allow the body to heal

Can Ear Infections Cause Complications?

Most ear infections clear up without long-term problems. However, untreated infections can sometimes lead to:

• Hearing loss
• Ruptured eardrum
• Chronic infections
• Spread of infection to nearby tissues

That’s why it’s best not to ignore persistent ear pain.

Preventing Ear Infections in Lewisville

While not every infection is preventable, these steps can help reduce the risk:

• Keep children up-to-date on vaccinations
• Wash hands often to avoid spreading colds and viruses
• Avoid smoke exposure, which increases risk in kids
• Use earplugs or dry ears thoroughly after swimming in Lewisville pools or lakes
• Don’t insert cotton swabs deep into ears

Why Lewisville Families Choose AFC Urgent Care

Residents of Lewisville, TX, and surrounding communities trust AFC Urgent Care because we provide:

• Walk-in visits—no appointment needed
• Evening and weekend hours for busy families
• On-site treatment for ear infections and related illnesses
• Pediatric-friendly care to make kids comfortable
• Convenient location serving Lewisville, Carrollton, Flower Mound, Grapevine, Irving, Valley Ranch, and Las Colinas

Whether it’s a child with their third ear infection this year or an adult who developed swimmer’s ear after a weekend at the pool, we’re here to help.

FAQs About Ear Infections

Q: Do adults get ear infections as often as kids?

A: No, they’re less common in adults, but still possible—especially after swimming or air travel.

Q: Can ear infections spread from one person to another?

A: The infection itself isn’t contagious, but the colds or viruses that trigger it can be.

Q: How fast do antibiotics work?

A: Pain relief often begins within 24–48 hours, though the full course must be completed.

Q: Can flying with an ear infection make it worse?

A: Yes, changes in air pressure can increase pain and risk of damage. It’s best to be checked before travel.

AFC Urgent Care Coppell

📍 Address:

760 N Denton Tap Rd, Suite R150

Coppell, TX 75019

📞 Phone:

945-229-0020

Walk In Today for Ear Infection Relief

If you or your child are dealing with ear pain, don’t wait it out and hope it improves. At AFC Urgent Care near Lewisville, TX, we’re here 7 days a week to provide fast relief and peace of mind.

No appointment is needed—walk in today for ear infection treatment.