Ear pain can range from a mild annoyance to an intense discomfort that disrupts your daily life. It’s a common symptom during cold and flu season, leaving many people wondering whether they’re dealing with a simple cold or a more serious ear infection. While these conditions share similarities, understanding their differences is key to seeking the right care. In this blog, we’ll compare cold-related ear pain to ear pain from an infection, and discuss when it might be necessary to seek medical care.
For same-day ear pain treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our center is open seven days a week and is conveniently located at 400 Westfield Avenue in Elizabeth, NJ. Walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
How Common Colds Cause Ear Pain
A cold is a viral infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. Colds may cause ear pain when congestion in the nasal passages causes swelling in the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat. This swelling can create pressure and discomfort in the ears. Ear pain from a cold usually resolves as the cold runs its course, which typically takes about 7 to 10 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants can help alleviate discomfort.
Common symptoms of a cold-related earache include:
- Mild to moderate ear pain or pressure
- Temporary muffled hearing
- Cold symptoms, including runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and low-grade fever
- Pain that tends to fluctuate, improving as the congestion clears
Understanding Ear Infections
An ear infection, medically known as otitis media, occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum and becomes infected, usually by bacteria. While a cold can lead to an ear infection, not all ear pain from a cold progresses to this condition. Unlike ear pain from a cold, ear infections may require antibiotics if caused by bacteria. Left untreated, severe infections can lead to complications like a ruptured eardrum.
Common symptoms of an ear infection include:
- Moderate to severe ear pain that may worsen when lying down
- Fluid drainage from the ear, which may be yellow in color
- Persistent pressure in the ear
- Hearing loss or difficulties
- Fever (especially in children)
How To Tell The Difference
The key distinction between ear pain from a cold and an ear infection is the severity and persistence of symptoms. If the pain is mild and gradually improves as your cold symptoms subside, it’s likely cold-related. However, if the pain becomes more intense, you develop a fever, or you notice fluid drainage, it could be an ear infection. As always, it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek a professional evaluation from a healthcare provider. Urgent care providers can examine your ear and run diagnostic testing to determine whether your symptoms are due to a cold or an infection. If an infection is detected, they may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to help you recover quickly.
Get Walk-In Ear Pain Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
Ear pain can be a frustrating symptom, but understanding whether it’s caused by a cold or an ear infection can help you take the right steps towards relief. If you’re unsure about your condition, or symptoms are worsening, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our team is here to provide fast, effective care so you can feel your best all year long. Our clinic is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment is the first step towards a full recovery. Just walk-in today! We accept most major health insurance carriers and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about allergy or sore throat treatment, please call our team directly at (908) 677-5900.
