Ear infections can cause severe discomfort. Find out what causes ear infections, how to prevent them, and what to do if you find yourself experiencing ear infection symptoms. Visit AFC Urgent Care North Bergen for walk-in illness diagnosis and treatment near North Bergen, NJ.
Common Causes of Ear Infections:
Unlike many illnesses and infections, ear infections can be caused by a variety of circumstances ranging from infections to presenting as a secondary illness. Here are some common causes of ear infections to be aware of:
Bacterial Infections:
Bacteria are the usual suspects in ear infections, particularly in the middle ear. When bacteria find their way into the ear canal, they can lead to an infection that requires medical diagnosis and prescription antibiotics to treat.
Viral Infections:
Viral infections can also cause an ear infection to develop. This mainly occurs as a result of an existing respiratory infection like the common cold. Viral infections can lead to inflammation in the middle ear and cause fluid to build up in the ear canal which creates an infection.
Sinus Congestion:
Although when you think of sinus congestion you may think of having a stuffy nose, congestion can also affect your ears. When sinuses become congested, it can block the Eustachian tubes, the ear's natural drainage system. This blockage creates a breeding ground for infection.
Moisture Exposure:
Have you ever heard of swimmer's ear? This type of ear infection is due to moisture becoming trapped in the ear canal. This often is due to activities such as swimming or excessive sweating. This moisture creates a perfect environment for bacterial growth.
Allergies:
Allergies can also contribute to ear infections. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the Eustachian tubes, leading to fluid accumulation and an increased risk of infection.
Symptoms of an Ear Infection:
Ear infections can manifest due to a variety of reasons. If you develop an ear infection at the same time as another illness, such as the flu, it may be difficult to identify the symptoms of an ear infection. Here are some common symptoms of an ear infection:
●Sharp pain inside of the ear
●Itchiness inside the ear
●Difficulty hearing
●Discharge from the ear
Ear infections can also share many common symptoms with other illnesses, such as a fever, headaches and fatigue. It is important to listen to your body and look for early symptoms of an ear infection so that you can get appropriate medical care.
Get Same-Day Illness Care by Visiting AFC Urgent Care North Bergen
Ear infections can occur due to a combination of bacteria, viruses, moisture, and various other factors. Understanding the symptoms of an ear infection can help you seek timely care and avoid symptoms becoming more severe. At AFC Urgent Care North Bergen, our medical providers are board-certified and able to diagnose and treat a wide variety of illnesses, including ear infections. Our medical providers are available for illness care seven days a week. Simply walk into our clinic, or schedule an appointment online.
If you’re suffering from the early symptoms of an ear infection, don’t delay seeking medical care. Get rapid illness care without long wait times by visiting AFC Urgent Care North Bergen today. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable treatment for patients paying out of pocket for their care. For additional questions regarding our clinic, please contact us directly.
