Finding Ear Infection Treatment from Qualified Doctors in Tampa – How to Identify Ear Infection Symptoms & When to Seek Medical Help

If you or your child has ever experienced an ear infection, you know that treatment needs to be fast and effective. But how do you identify the symptoms of an ear infection, and when is it time to see a doctor? The physicians at South Tampa Immediate Care are here to give you some tips about how to deal with this common condition.

Ear infections most frequently occur in the middle ear, where a tube connecting your ear to the back of your throat drains fluids that your ear produces. If anything causes this tube to become blocked or swollen, such as allergies or a sinus infection, fluid doesn’t drain properly and bacteria can build up and cause an infection. Often, ear infections accompany or follow another illness, such as a cold. You should consult with a physician if the following symptoms are present:

• Fever
• Ear pain or throbbing
• A feeling as though your ear is “plugged”
• Slight difficulty hearing
• Small amounts of clear or yellow drainage

After performing an exam, the doctor may recommend an ear infection treatment plan that includes warm compresses, ear drops, ibuprofen, or antibiotics. You should seek emergency care immediately if you experience bleeding from the ear, severe hearing loss, or if you suspect the ear drum may be perforated. If ear pain directly follows an impact to the head, go to the ER right away.

For all of life’s unexpected illnesses and injuries, the doctors at South Tampa Immediate Care are here to help you. We offer ear infection treatment, eye infection treatment, flu treatment, burn treatment, and a variety of other services. We’re located at 602 South Howard Avenue and our hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and weekends, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.