Ear infections are bacterial infections that occur deep within the ear canal. They can happen to anyone, but are most common in young children due to their small ear canals. Ear infections can happen due to a variety of different conditions and circumstances. In the summertime, water being trapped within the ear canal after swimming is a very common cause. In some cases, ear infections can heal on their own; however, they do sometimes require medical care to fully go away.
At AFC Urgent Care Southcenter, our walk-in clinic is able to provide same-day treatment for ear infections on a walk-in basis. We have short wait times and offer care Monday through Saturday without the need to schedule an appointment in advance. Walk into the clinic when it’s convenient, or schedule your visit in advance online below.
What Causes Ear Infections in the Summertime?
Ear infections can happen at any point in the year. Swelling in the sinuses can lead to fluid buildup in the ear canal, which can occur due to seasonal allergy flare-ups throughout the spring and summer seasons. During the summertime, ear infections caused by water exposure are also very common. They can occur after a swim if not all of the water is cleared from the ear canal. Showering can also lead to ear infections if water gets in the ear.
Common Symptoms of Ear Infections
Ear infections are generally easy to diagnose. There are many different symptoms of ear infections, including the following:
- Ear pain
- Itchiness in and around the ear
- Headaches
- Fever
- Body aches
- Pressure in the ear
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Trouble hearing
Symptoms of ear infections can last up to a week in mild cases, and sometimes longer for severe cases.
Treatment Options for Summer Ear Infections
If you notice any of the mentioned symptoms associated with ear infections, it is important that you seek medical care. While some ear infections can go away on their own, if your symptoms last over a week, you may need medications like antibiotics to clear up the infection properly. Delaying care can cause damage within the ear canal and potentially make you more susceptible to developing ear infections in the future.
Visit AFC Southcenter for Same-Day Ear Infection Treatment
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ear infection, it is important that you seek medical care. While some ear infections can go away on their own, delaying care can result in your symptoms worsening over time. At AFC Southcenter, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt ear infection diagnosis and treatment when it works for your schedule. Just walk into the clinic when it’s convenient!
Our clinic is available Monday through Saturday to provide same-day treatment for minor conditions, including ear infections. We work with most medical insurance plans and have competitive rates for patients paying out of pocket for their care. To learn more about the services we provide, walk into the clinic or give us a call at (425) 291-3300.
