7 Signs You May Have an Ear Infection

An ear infection, or otitis media, is an inflammation or infection of the middle ear. It can occur in one or both ears and can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Ear infections are more common in children than adults, but they can affect people of all ages. 80% of children suffer from ear infections compared to only 20% of adults.

 

If left untreated, ear infections can cause discomfort, inconvenience, and even risk becoming severe. Knowing the telltale symptoms and signs of an ear infection can help you quickly obtain the treatment you need. Telemedicine ear infection treatment services offered by TelMDCare are among the most trusted and affordable. We have professional online doctors and do not require patients' health insurance.

To treat ear infections, you first need to identify its signs. So, let's discuss the seven most common signs of an ear infection. 

What are the signs of an ear infection?

The signs of ear infection can vary depending on the severity and type of infection. Some common signs and symptoms include:

1. Pain or Discomfort in the Ear

You may feel pain or discomfort in your ear when you have an ear infection. This discomfort can be mild to severe and may be continual or intermittent. Fullness or pressure in the ear may also be present. This pain can also be felt in the jaw or the head.

2. Fever

Many infections, including ear infections, feature a high temperature as one of their symptoms. Fever, ranging from low to high, is a common symptom of an ear infection. An ear thermometer can be used for this purpose.

 

3. Drainage from the Ear

Discharge from the ear is another sign of an ear infection. The fluid's appearance and smell can vary widely, from clear to yellow to crimson. The smell of the fluid can be unpleasant as well.

4. Reduced Hearing or Muffled Sounds

You may experience reduced hearing or muffled sounds if you have an ear infection. This is because inflammation or infection can affect the eardrum and the tiny bones in the ear that help with hearing.

5. Irritability or Fussiness in Infants and Young Children

Ear infections are more common in children than adults, and infants and young children may show signs of irritability or fussiness when they have an ear infection. They may also pull at their ears or have difficulty sleeping.

6. Headache, Nausea, or Vomiting

An ear infection can sometimes cause other symptoms, such as headache, nausea, or vomiting. This may be due to the fluid buildup in the ear.

 

7. Loss of Balance or Dizziness

The inflammation or infection in the ear can also affect your balance and cause dizziness. You may feel like the room is spinning or feel lightheaded.

Ear infections can lead to other severe problems, like meningitis, a condition where the infection spreads to the outer layer of the brain, where the patient suffers from extreme headaches. Before that happens, you need to consult an experienced, professional doctor.

TelMDCare Is Your Savior

TelMDcare has a team of telemedicine doctors who are experienced in treating ear infections. Sitting in the comfort of your home, you can get diagnosed and treated through our skilled virtual doctors. We offer our affordable services in multiple US states. Check the states here.

You can still benefit from our online doctors if you have no health insurance or are a visa holder. All you have to do is contact us by booking a doctor's appointment online and get treated immediately.