Ear infections are a prevalent reason for visits to healthcare providers, particularly for children. The most common form of this condition, called otitis media, occurs as a result of inflammation and infection of the middle ear, situated right behind the eardrum.
An acute ear infection emerges swiftly and is associated with pain, whereas chronic ear infections persist over a long duration or recur frequently.
At Make You Well in Colleyville, we frequently encounter ear infections resulting from blockages in the eustachian tube, which extends from each ear to the back of the throat. This tube’s role is to drain the fluid produced in the middle ear. When it becomes obstructed, fluid accumulation can occur, leading to infection.
Such infections are prevalent among infants and children due to their narrower eustachian tubes, prone to blockages. While adults can also suffer from ear infections, they are less frequent than in children. Treatment for ear infections at our Make You Well Colleyville facility varies, including ear lavage or canal cleaning and possible antibiotics to combat the disease.
Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal, typically caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or bathing—creating a moist environment where bacteria can grow. It causes pain when the ear or jaw is moved. A middle ear infection (otitis media) involves the space behind the eardrum and is most common in children following a cold or upper respiratory infection. Treatment differs for each type.
Recurring ear infections in children are often related to eustachian tube dysfunction, enlarged adenoids, exposure to cigarette smoke, attendance at group childcare, or underlying allergies that cause chronic fluid buildup behind the eardrum. If your child has had three or more ear infections in six months or four or more in a year, our providers may recommend further evaluation to determine whether additional treatment is needed.
Mild, temporary hearing loss during an active ear infection is common due to fluid or swelling in the middle ear and typically resolves with treatment. Untreated or recurrent infections can occasionally lead to more lasting changes if the eardrum is perforated or scar tissue develops. Prompt treatment and follow-up monitoring help protect long-term hearing, particularly in children at critical stages of language development.
A warm (not hot) compress held gently against the ear can provide temporary pain relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (at appropriate doses) are effective for pain and fever. Elevating your head slightly while lying down can reduce pressure. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. These measures address discomfort only—they do not treat the underlying infection.
