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Ear Infection

ENT Specialists

ENTs and Allergy Clinics located in Salt Lake City, UT; Murray, UT; Tooele, UT; Draper, UT; & West Jordan, UT

Ear infections don’t always require medical intervention. However, frequent ear infections may affect long-term hearing. At ENT Specialists, with offices in Salt Lake City, Murray, Draper and Tooele, Utah, the experienced team provides comprehensive care for children and adults suffering from acute or chronic ear infections. To schedule an evaluation to discuss treatment options, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Ear Infection Q & A

What is an ear infection?

An ear infection, also called acute otitis media, is a bacterial or viral infection of the middle ear. 

Ear infections often occur as a side effect of another infection, such as a cold or flu. You may also be prone to ear infections if you suffer from seasonal allergies, which cause congestion and swelling of your nasal passages, sinuses, and eustachian tubes.

Your eustachian tubes run from your middle ear to the back of your throat and help regulate air pressure and drain secretions from your ear. If your eustachian tubes are swollen, fluid can’t drain, which creates the perfect environment for bacterial or viral growth.

Though anyone can develop an ear infection at any age, it’s more common in children because their eustachian tubes are smaller and more horizontal, which may prevent proper drainage.

What are ear infection symptoms?

Ear infections develop quickly and may be severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Ear pain
  • Fever
  • Ear drainage
  • Headache
  • Hearing loss (temporary)

In children, ear infections may also cause fussiness, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

When should I seek medical care for an ear infection?

Though ear infections may clear up on their own, you should consult with a doctor when you or your child is experiencing ear infection symptoms to get the right diagnosis. 

If you or your child suffers from chronic ear infections, ENT Specialists can help. The experienced team specializes in conditions that affect the ears, nose, and throat and can design a plan to reduce or eliminate ear infections.

Without proper care, chronic ear infections may lead to permanent hearing loss. 

How is an ear infection treated?

The team develops individualized treatment plans for ear infections based on the frequency of infections and severity of symptoms. Treatment may include:

  • Over-the-counter pain medication
  • Antibiotics
  • Rest and fluids

For children and adults with chronic ear infections, the team at ENT Specialists offers ear tube placements. Ear tubes assist with fluid drainage and may help prevent ear infections. 

These tubes are temporary and may last six months to a year. If ear tubes are recommended for your ear infection, the team at ENT Specialists reviews the details of the procedure so you know what to expect before, during, and after.

For comprehensive care of your or your child’s ear infections from a team of experts, call ENT Specialists or book an appointment online today.