Adult Earache Service - Ear Infection Treatment for Adults
Ear infections are very common, especially among children. They often cause symptoms such as a high temperature, pain around the ear, and sometimes nausea, making you or your child feel quite unwell. Watching your child suffer from an inner or outer ear infection—or experiencing the discomfort yourself—can be difficult. We understand how important it is to find effective treatment quickly.
Most ear infections begin to improve within about three days. At Health and Wellness Medical Clinic, we are here to help identify the right treatment to bring relief and support a speedy recovery for you or your child.
Advice for Ear Infections
What Are Ear Infections?
Ear infections, medically known as acute otitis media (middle ear infection) or otitis externa (outer ear infection), are common conditions that can affect people of all ages, though they are most frequent in children.
Many ear infections resolve on their own without treatment within a few days. However, in cases of severe or recurrent infections, antibiotics may be necessary to prevent potential long-term damage, including hearing loss.
Symptoms and Ear Infection Treatment for Adults
Symptoms often develop quickly and typically improve within 3 to 7 days without treatment. Common signs include:
- Ear pain
- Fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Difficulty hearing
- Discharge from the ear
- Sensation of pressure in the ear
- Itching around or inside the ear
- Dry or flaky skin around the ear
How Are Ear Infections Diagnosed?
At Health and Wellness Medical Clinic, diagnosis is usually straightforward based on your symptoms and medical history. Our healthcare professionals will examine the ears, throat, and nasal passages and check your temperature to identify signs of infection.
If you or your child frequently experience ear infections, you may become familiar with the early symptoms and seek treatment promptly.
How Are Ear Infections Treated?
Mild and short-lived ear infections often improve without medical treatment within 3 to 7 days. To relieve symptoms, we recommend:
- Taking pain relief medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Applying a warm or cool compress to the affected ear
- Gently cleaning any discharge with a clean swab or cotton ball
If symptoms persist beyond three days or worsen, or if you experience a high fever, a healthcare professional may prescribe antibiotics. For outer ear infections, treatments such as antibacterial ear drops (e.g., Earcalm), steroid sprays (e.g., Otomize Ear Spray), or antifungal drops (e.g., Canesten Solution) can help reduce symptoms.
Can Ear Infection Flare-Ups Be Prevented?
While middle ear infections are often triggered by colds or flu and can be hard to prevent, you can reduce the risk of outer ear infections by:
- Avoiding inserting cotton buds or fingers into the ears
- Using earplugs or a swimming cap to protect ears while swimming
- Preventing water or shampoo from entering the ears during showers or baths