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It’s 2 a.m., and your little one is awake, crying because of ear pain. You’ve tried comforting him, but nothing seems to work. 

You feel helpless, exhausted, and unsure of what to do next. Why isn’t the pain going away? What’s causing it?

Then, another question pops into your mind: Can an ear infection spread to the rest of the family?

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many parents worry about ear infections, how they happen, why they’re so painful, and whether they’re contagious.

In this blog, we’ll break it down for you. You’ll learn what causes ear infections, whether they can spread, and, most importantly, how to keep your family safe and healthy. Let’s cut to the chase! 

Are Ear Infections Contagious?

The ear infection itself is not contagious; however, the virus and bacteria that cause the infection can spread from person to person. 

If someone around you sneezes or coughs, their germs can make you sick, so in certain conditions, a viral infection can be transmitted by another person.

When you get a cold or flu, the virus can make your nose and throat swollen, which can affect your ears and cause an ear infection.

Viral and bacterial infections are contagious; different types of germs can cause various symptoms. 

If it is caused by a bacteria, the doctor may prescribe some antibiotics to your child. 

What Are The Symptoms of An Ear Infection?

Ear infections can cause different kinds of symptoms that may impact both your ears, so that’s why recognizing these symptoms can help you get faster treatment and avoid complications in the future.

Here are some common ear infection symptoms: 

Common symptoms in children 

  • Trouble sleeping 
  • Loss of balance 
  • Headache 
  • Fever 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Cough
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea

Common symptoms In adults 

  • A feeling of pressure in your ear
  • Discharge from ear 
  • Trouble hearing
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Ringing sounds in the ear 
  • Dizziness or postural imbalance 

How Are Ear Infections Treated?

Treatment of ear infections also depends on various factors, such as your child’s age, the severity of the condition, and the nature of the infection. 

Bacterial ear infections, or otitis media, are treated with antibiotic ear drops such as amoxicillin, azithromycin, and cefuroxime. 

A viral infection can often heal without any antibiotics. It is treated by over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. 

Most ear infections get better on their own within 2 to 4 days. However, you should contact your doctor if your symptoms are not getting better. 

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider For Ear Infection?

It’s important to contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • High fever
  • Severe ear pain
  • Swelling behind the ear
  • Reduced hearing
  • Difficulty sleeping

If your infant or toddler is facing difficulty in sleeping or your child feels irritable in cold weather, then you should see your doctor as soon as possible. 

In adults, ear infections may also disrupt their daily life and it can become difficult to concentrate on your routine activities. 

If your symptoms worsen, it’s better to consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. You can even visit our urgent care clinic if you live in Chicago or Schereville. 

What Can I Do To Prevent Ear Infections In My Child?

As a parent, there’s nothing worse than seeing your child in pain, especially when it comes to ear infections. 

They’re uncomfortable, frustrating, and can leave you feeling helpless. But here’s the good news: there are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk and protect your little one.

Here’s how you can protect your child:

  • Wash their hands frequently as germs spread easily through them. 
  • Try to keep the nose clear using saline drops or decongestants in case of a cold. 
  • Make sure your child isn’t exposed to cigarette smoke. 
  • Moisture promotes bacterial growth, so keep their ears dry.
  • Make sure your child stays warm during cold weather.
  • Make sure your child’s vaccinations are up to date.

If you notice any signs of an infection, don’t wait! You can even visit a nearby urgent care clinic and get help from a professional healthcare provider to help you or your child recover faster. 

Since it’s cold in Chicago these days, keeping your child’s ears protected is even more important. Wondering if cold air can actually cause ear infections? Read more about it here and learn how to keep your family safe this winter. 

Get Quick Relief From Ear Infections at Family Urgent Care

We know how tough it can be when your child is dealing with ear pain. 

Once you visit our clinic, our provider will examine your child’s ear, identify the infection, and recommend the best treatment. You can even manage mild symptoms at home. 

With clinics in both Chicago and Schererville, our experienced team is ready to help your family with accurate diagnosis and effective care.

So, when you or your child is experiencing mild discomfort or severe symptoms, we’re here for you. Book an appointment today, and let us help your family feel better.

If you can’t visit the clinic, you can even book an online video or phone appointment and talk to the provider directly. 

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