Ear infections are a common ailment that can affect individuals of all ages, although most common in young children. They can cause significant discomfort and present a range of symptoms that often beg the question… How long will this ear infection last? In this blog, we’ll outline the causes and symptoms of ear infections to explain the different factors that can influence their duration.
For same-day ear infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our certified medical providers specialize in treating general illnesses for patients of all ages. Visit today to learn more about what you can do to promote faster ear infection healing.
Causes and Symptoms of Ear Infections
Before comprehending the duration of an ear infection, it’s important to understand how they’re caused. There are a few different types of infection, the most common being otitis media (middle ear infection). This occurs when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to bacteria or viruses. Another common type of ear infection in the summer is otitis externa (swimmer’s ear). This occurs when water exposure or excessive moisture is trapped in the ear.
Common ear infection symptoms include:
- Ear pain and pressure
- Fluid drainage
- Hearing loss
- Fever
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headache
Ear Infection Duration & Influencing Factors
The duration of an ear infection can vary significantly from person to person. In most cases, acute middle ear infections can last for about 7 to 10 days. Symptoms will typically subside within the first few days of infection. However, some people may experience symptoms for a few weeks if the infection is severe or the individual’s immune system is weakened.
Several factors can influence the duration of an ear infection. Young children tend to experience longer-lasting infections as bacteria or viruses can stay trapped in the ear more easily. Additionally, timely treatment can reduce the duration of symptoms. Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat bacterial infections, while viral infections require supportive care remedies.
How To Promote Faster Ear Infection Healing
While ear infections may need to run their course, there are a few measures you can follow to promote faster healing and alleviate symptoms. First and foremost, be sure to consult a healthcare provider if you begin to develop symptoms. It’s essential to receive an accurate diagnosis and get an appropriate treatment plan. Providers can prescribe medication and recommend further supportive care measures. At home, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate the discomfort. Also, you can apply a warm compress to the affected area to provide more relief and aid your recovery.
Always be sure to give yourself time to rest and recover naturally. Staying hydrated can support the body’s immune system during the recovery process as well. If you have an ear infection, avoid irritants like water exposure, cotton swabs, earphones, and so forth.
Receive Same-Day Care at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
If you start to develop ear infection symptoms, come visit us at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. The clinic is open seven days a week with extended hours, making healthcare services accessible for everyone in the Elizabeth, NJ area and surrounding communities. Our team is dedicated to providing the best care seven days a week, including weekends.
We accept most major health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about ear infection care, or other services we provide, please call us directly at (908) 677-5900
