When dealing with ear infections, many people wonder if they can heal on their own. Ear infections, particularly in the middle ear, are common, especially in children, and often occur after a cold or another respiratory infection. If you’re dealing with ear pain, pressure, or hearing changes, you may wonder whether an ear infection will heal on its own or if medical treatment is necessary. The answer depends on the type of infection, its severity, and how long symptoms persist.

For same-day ear infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and always accepts walk-in patients. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply pre-register below.

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Understanding Ear Infections

An ear infection is an infection of the middle ear that occurs when bacteria or viruses enter the space in between your child’s eardrum. The middle ear is found between the inner ear and eardrum and contains tiny bones that are responsible for sending sound vibrations across from your eardrum to the inner ear. Ear infections often arise after a cold or flu, and its onset is typically rapid.

Signs and symptoms of ear infection amongst children include:

• Ear pain
• Loss of balance
• Trouble sleeping
• Headache
• Lack of appetite
• Constant cries
• Fussiness
• High fever
• Pressure in the affected ear
• Onset of mouth-breathing

Signs of symptoms of ear infection in adults include:

• Ear pain and pressure
• Difficulty in hearing
• Fluid discharge from the ear

Types of Ear Infections

Ear infections occur when bacteria or viruses gain access to the middle ear. Most times, ear infections begin after the onset of a cold, flu, or allergy. These germs enter into the middle ear via the Eustachian tubes which lead to swelling and clogging. There are three main types of ear infections:

1. Outer Ear Infection (Otitis Externa): Also known as swimmer’s ear, this infection affects the ear canal and is often caused by trapped moisture or bacteria.
2. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): This is the most common type and occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, leading to bacterial or viral infection.
3. Inner Ear Infection: This is less common and usually results from a viral infection, causing dizziness and balance issues.

Can an Ear Infection Go Away Without Treatment?

In many cases, mild ear infections can resolve on their own without antibiotics, especially if they are viral. However, bacterial infections or more severe cases may require medical intervention. Mild middle ear infections will generally clear up within 2 to 3 days, but symptoms can linger for a week or more. Mild outer ear infections can improve within a few days with proper ear hygiene and keeping the ear dry. Viral infections affecting the inner ear may take a few weeks to fully resolve.

While some ear infections heal on their own, others require antibiotics or other treatments. Seek medical care if you experience:

• Severe ear pain that doesn’t improve
• High fever
• Persistent symptoms lasting more than a week
• Hearing loss of drainage of fluid or pus from the ear
• Frequent ear infections or a history or chronic infections

Get Walk-In Ear Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale

While many ear infections heal on their own, some require medical intervention. Paying attention to symptoms and seeking care when needed can help prevent complications and speed up recovery. If you or your child has persistent ear pain or other concerning symptoms, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale for prompt evaluation and treatment. Our urgent care center is open 7 days a week and provides exceptional care to all patients in the Denver, CO area and surrounding communities. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about ear infection treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 935-1000.