What are Ear Infection Symptoms?
What is an ear infection?
An ear infection is an inflammation of the middle ear, which is a small pocket of air behind the eardrum. The ear is connected to the throat via the eustachian tubes. When fluid builds up in those tubes or bacteria travels up to the middle ear, ear infection symptoms are the norm.
What are ear infection symptoms in a child?
Ear infections are a standard event for children. Ear infection symptoms are one of the most common reasons parents take their children to the doctor. Over 70% of kids will have ear infection symptoms before the age of three.
- Fussiness or crying
- Tugging or pulling at the ear (particularly in children too young to speak)
- Fever and loss of appetite
- Drainage from the ear
- Difficulty with balance or hearing
My child has ear infections symptoms a lot?
Though anyone can get an ear infection, they are much more common in children than adults. The eustachian tubes in a child’s ears are smaller and tipped at an angle less helpful for draining fluids, so they are more prone to infection. If you are concerned about your child’s recurrent ear infection symptoms, please talk to the medical professionals at the FastMed Urgent Care nearest to your home.
Are ear infection symptoms contagious?
No. But ear infections are often the result of cold or other viruses which are contagious.
Can I get treated for ear infection symptoms at FastMed?
Yes. Ear infections are normally treated with antibiotics. Our medical team can provide you with your prescription, saving you time and money by leaving the clinic with your medications in-hand. Please remember when taking antibiotics to finish the entire course of medication even if you start to feel better. We’re open 365 days a year, accept most major insurance plans and no appointment is necessary.
Other articles:
Sore Throat Remedies | Strep Throat Symptoms | UTI: Urinary Tract Infection | Allergy Medicine | Sore Throat
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.