Signs You Have an Ear Infection

Signs You Have an Ear Infection

Find out if the ear problems you are having could actually be due to an ear infection.

There is nothing fun about having ear problems. Of course, it isn’t always easy to tell if the symptoms you are having are warning you of an ear infection. Knowing the symptoms and when to see your otolaryngologist, The Head and Neck Center, P.C in Bethlehem for treatment is very important so you can eliminate the infection and get your ear health back on track. If you think you have an ear infection, here are some of the signs to look for.

An ear infection often comes on suddenly. If you are an adult suffering from an ear infection it’s fairly common to experience ear pain and drainage, as well as muffled or lessened hearing. If you suspect that your child might have an ear infection here are some of the most common symptoms:

  • Ear pain
  • Discharge from the ear
  • Lack of appetite
  • Poor balance
  • Irritability or fussiness
  • Problems sleeping
  • Nausea
  • Tugging at ear
  • Having trouble hearing or responding to others
  • Fever of 100 degrees F or higher

While most people don’t immediately see a doctor the minute symptoms arise, you should go ahead and schedule an appointment with your The Head and Neck Center, P.C otolaryngologist if:

  • Your symptoms last more than one day
  • A child under 6 months old is displaying these symptoms
  • Your ear pain is serious
  • If your child is having trouble sleeping
  • If you notice pus or blood draining from the ears

There are many reasons for an ear infection, whether it’s from a simple illness or swelling of the Eustachian tubes in the ears. Your doctor will talk to you about the symptoms you are experiencing and then examine your ear. If a virus is to blame (which is often the case) then antibiotics will be prescribed. We can also talk to you about other at-home measures you can take to manage your symptoms and reduce pain and discomfort.

If you are concerned that you may have an ear infection then it’s time to call an ear, nose & throat doctor that you can trust. Call our office today and let us know what symptoms you are experiencing. We will try to get you in right away.