Common Causes of Ear Pain

Ear pain or earache is a condition that affects millions of Americans every year. In some cases it is harmless and goes away on its own, but in some cases without proper and prompt treatment it can lead to other issues—even hearing loss. Explore a few of the common causes of ear pain and how you can have it treated at Virginia Medical Acute Care, a Springfield VA urgent care practice.

Infection

The most common cause of ear pain is some type of infection. When other causes, like direct injury, can be ruled out, chances are that pain is associated with an infection. There are three common types of ear infections:
Otitis Externa (an infection of the outer ear)
Middle ear infection (infection of the area behind the ear drum, which is common in kids)
Sinusitis (sinus irritation that starts in the nasal passages and can spread to the area around the ear)

Ear infections often happen because of a foreign substance that enters the ear (like sand or an allergen), causing inflammation and irritation. Children are often more susceptible because their immune system is still developing. It’s important to bring them in for Springfield VA urgent care as soon as possible. The usual treatment recommended for an infection is a prescription for antibiotics and thorough disinfecting of the area. 

Foreign Objects in the Ear

In some cases, an earache is caused by a foreign object in the ear. This is a common cause of ear pain in children, as they sometimes put things in their ears. The object can be located during an examination by a doctor at Springfield VA urgent care or with an X-ray. Removal (surgical in some cases), pain medication and antibiotics are the common solutions.

Rupture of Eardrum

Another cause of ear pain is an eardrum rupture. The ear drum is a membrane that is relatively thin—it separates your middle and outer ear. If it becomes ruptured or torn, usually as a result of loud noises, ear popping at high altitudes or injury, it can lead to ear aches. Treatment includes antibiotics and patching the membrane so that it heals.

Get Ear Pain Solutions at Virginia Medical Acute Care

If you or your child is experiencing, ear pain, call Virginia Medical Acute Care for urgent care in Springfield, VA at 703- 564-5998 or just walk-in (no appointment is necessary). 

Are you a patient of VMAC Urgent Care? If so, we would love to hear about your experiences below!