Occasional aches and pains are common in our daily lives. Our bodies are really complex and sometimes have a hard time adjusting to changing environments or external stressors. While a fleeting ache is usually nothing to worry about, worsening or chronic pain usually indicates that something is amiss.

This is certainly true when it comes to your ears! Ear pain can sometimes be associated with pressure or elevation changes, allergies, or tooth troubles, but it can also indicate a pesky ear infection.

Our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team explains what to look for when it comes to ear infections, so read on to learn more.

What Causes Ear Infections?

Ear infections are most commonly caused by a bacteria that made its way into your middle ear and started to grow. They can be independent infections, or they can be caused by a current cold or other illness that migrated to your ear canal. Once it settles into your ear, it will spread and cause discomfort in one or both of your ears.

As the infection grows, you will start to feel pressure build up in your inner ear. This is due to the infection pressing against your ear drum. This can also be painful and cause throbbing, aching or stabbing pains in your ear. If the infection grows enough to disrupt the fluid drainage process in your ear, fluid can back up and cause even more pain and discomfort.

Ear Infection Symptoms to Watch For

• Pain inside inner ear
• Discharge coming from ear
• Feeling pressure in your ear
• Difficulty hearing

What Is the Quickest Way to Get Rid of an Ear Infection?

Unfortunately, there are no immediate fixes for an ear infection. Sometimes antibiotics can be given to help aid in your recovery if your infection is severe enough, but your body is actually capable of eliminating most ear infections on its own! Rest, drink a lot of water and take some OTC medication to help with the pain, and you can expect to feel better in a matter of days.

If a few days have passed and you aren’t finding any relief, come see us. We can do a visual exam and look into your ears to see if there is anything else going on! If we determine that antibiotics are the right choice for you, you need to take the entire prescription to make sure the infection is cleared from your ear(s).

How to Avoid Future Infections

• Keep your ears clean and dry.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Avoid smoking.
• Stay up-to-date with your vaccination schedule.

Is ear pain affecting your day? Drop by AFC Urgent Care Boulder to visit with our care team.