During the winter season, many different illnesses tend to circulate. Ear pain is a common symptom many individuals experience. Ear pain can happen during the winter due to a variety of reasons including the cold weather, dry air, and sudden temperature changes. These factors can cause discomfort or exacerbate underlying conditions such as ear infections or sinus congestion. In addition, the pressure changes that occur when transitioning between indoor warmth and outdoor chill can lead to earaches.
If you’re experiencing ear pain, it is important to seek medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Burlington, our board-certified medical providers are trained to diagnose common conditions such as ear pain and treat them effectively! We never require you to schedule an appointment, simply walk into the clinic!
Common Causes of Ear Pain Colds
When a person catches a cold, the nasal passages become swollen and blocked which can lead to mucus buildup in the sinus passages. This congestion can also affect the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. When these tubes become clogged, they prevent proper drainage and pressure regulation in the ear, resulting in discomfort or a feeling of fullness. This can sometimes lead to ear infections or exacerbate pre-existing ear problems, making the ear pain more intense during winter.
A Sinus Infection
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is another common cause of ear pain during winter. When the sinuses become inflamed due to an infection, the pressure within the sinus cavities increases and can spread to nearby areas, including the ears. The Eustachian tubes, which help regulate ear pressure, can become blocked by mucus or swelling.
Middle Ear Infections
A middle ear infection is another common cause of ear pain during winter. This condition occurs when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to bacterial or viral infections, typically following an upper respiratory infection. The Eustachian tube, which drains fluid from the middle ear, can become blocked due to swelling or mucus buildup, causing fluid to accumulate in the ear. This trapped fluid creates pressure, leading to pain and discomfort.
Cold Weather
Cold weather can contribute to ear pain in several ways, particularly by affecting the sensitive ear canal. The temperature drop can cause the ear canal's skin to become dry, cracked, or irritated, leading to discomfort. Additionally, exposure to cold wind can exacerbate this irritation, causing pain or a feeling of tightness in the ears.
Ear Pain Diagnosis & Treatment Near Burlington, MA
Tackling earaches in cold weather involves a combination of prevention and treatment strategies to alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of further issues. First, it's important to keep the ears warm by wearing hats, earmuffs, or scarves, especially when exposed to cold winds. If an earache is caused by congestion, using a humidifier indoors can help prevent dryness in the airways and ease nasal and ear congestion. If ear pain persists or worsens despite home remedies, seeking urgent care services is crucial to prevent further complications.
Walk Into AFC Burlington for Same-Day Ear Pain Treatment
At AFC Burlington, our board-certified medical providers can quickly diagnose the issue, offer appropriate treatments like antibiotics or pain relief, and address the underlying cause. Timely medical attention can help alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term damage, ensuring overall ear health throughout winter. At AFC Urgent Care Burlington, our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week, including on weekends, to provide prompt care for ear pain. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable rates. Walk into the clinic today!
