Ear Infection

Ear infections are common acute illnesses, with both children and adults experiencing distressing symptoms. At ViteleDoc, a telehealth practice serving patients in California and Oregon, virtual urgent care provider Dustin Jacot, PA-C, offers ear infection guidance to provide you with faster treatment and relief. To get ear infection treatment for you or your child, use the online booking feature or call Dustin today to schedule a telehealth visit.

What is an ear infection?

An ear infection is a type of illness that occurs when bacteria or viruses cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the ear canal (outer ear) or behind the eardrum (middle ear). Ear infections are common health issues for children, but you can get an ear infection as an adult.  

Outer ear infections typically develop when bacteria or viruses infect the outer ear leading to the ear drup causing swelling, inflammation and pain.

Middle ear infections typically develop when something is blocking the small passageways from your middle ear to your throat (eustachian tubes) and fluid is unable to drain properly. These tubes help to regulate pressure and drain normal ear secretions.  

What causes ear infections?

Some of the common causes of ear infections include:

• Sinusitis
• Cold and flu (excess mucus)
• Allergies
• Upper respiratory infections 
• Air pressure changes
• Swollen adenoids

Children are especially vulnerable to ear infections as their eustachian tubes are much narrower and shorter than adults. 

What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

Whether you have a bacterial or viral ear infection, it can lead to a variety of symptoms. 

With ear infections, you may experience symptoms, such as:

• Earache or pain, especially when you’re lying down
• Difficulty hearing and sleeping well
• Balance issues
• Fluid draining from your ear
• Fever, headache, or loss of appetite
• A sensation of fullness or “popping” in your ear
• Pulling or tugging at your ear

Children with ear infections may have irritability and start to cry due to the discomfort in their ears. 

How is an ear infection treated?

At ViteleDoc, Dustin offers customized treatment plans for ear infections after a virtual exam. At an appointed time, you’ll join a secure, telemedicine platform by phone or computer to discuss your condition with Dustin. 

Through virtual visits, he can prescribe medication, such as ear drops, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medicines, or decongestants, to ease your inflammation or congestion and help you alleviate clogged ear symptoms. If your ear infection is caused by allergies, you might need antihistamines. 

Dustin can send you an e-prescription and manage your ear infection to ensure you receive effective care. If you have a severe ear infection, he might recommend further lab testing or you to a local specialist for a procedure. 

Don’t delay treatment for an ear infection when there is help available. Click the online booking feature or call ViteleDoc today.