Ear infections can be difficult to diagnose due to their broad symptoms. Luckily, ear infections typically resolve on their own. However, in certain cases, medical intervention may be necessary to treat an ear infection. Walk into AFC Urgent Care Stoneham today for rapid illness diagnosis and treatment near Stoneham, MA.
Causes and Symptoms of Ear Infections
Unlike many illnesses, ear infections are unique because they can be caused by a viral infection or a bacterial infection. Ear infections occur due to an infection which causes fluid to buildup in the ear. This fluid can exert pressure on nearby structures, including the head which often results in painful headaches. Ear infections often go hand in hand with sinus congestion, which can sometimes make diagnosising an ear infection in its early stages difficult.
Common Ear Infection Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Fever
- Pain or itching in the ear
Ear infections often are a secondary infection which result from another illness, such as the flu. When other illnesses cause your sinuses to swell, it can lead to fluid buildup in the ear which can cause an infection. Swift medical diagnosis and treatment of illnesses can help prevent painful secondary infections such as ear infections from occuring.
Should I Go To Urgent Care If I Think I have An Ear Infection?
In most cases, ear infections can resolve on their own in a few days. However, if your ear infection is caused by a bacterial infection, you may need antibiotics to clear the infection. The only way to know the cause of your ear infection is to get diagnostic testing preformed by a medical provider.
If your symptoms are severe, or have lasted more than a few days, you should seek medical attention for your ear infection. Treating an ear infection early can prevent symptoms from worsening. If your infection is left untreated and continues to worsen, it can cause damage to or even rupture your ear drum.
Ear Infection Treatment Near Stoneham, MA
Seeking medical diagnosis and treatment for an ear infection is always a good idea. Medical professionals can preform diagnostic testing and find the cause of your infection. If your infection is due to bacteria, your medical provider can prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection. Based on the evaluation of the infection, your medical provider can provide at-home care instructions.
If your ear infection is caused by a viral infection, there are a few steps that you can take in order to manage your discomfort while your infection heals. Staying hydrated and getting rest both will help your body fight off the infection. Using a warm compress on your ear for 20 minutes at a time may help releive swelling in the area. Using over the counter pain medications can help ensure you’re able to fight off the infection without major discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions for any over-the-counter medications you may take.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for Illness Diagnosis & Treatment near Stoneham, MA
If you’re suffering from headaches and ear pain, you may be suffering from an ear infection. At AFC Urgent Care Stoneham, our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with an on-site laboratory for rapid diagnostic testing. Our clinic is open 7 days a week and we never require you to have an appointment to receive medical care. Simply walk into our clinic or schedule an appointment online.
Seeking medical care early can help prevent severe symptoms from manifesting. Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for same-day illness diagnosis and treatment without the long wait times associated with the emergency room. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable treatment options. Simply walk into our clinic when it is convenient for you. For additional questions regarding our clinic, please contact us directly.
