Urgent Care for Ear Pain and Infections
What Causes Ear Pain and Discomfort?
Ear discomfort can stem from many different causes. For some patients, the problem is as simple as trapped water in the ear canal after swimming or showering. Others may experience blockage from excessive earwax. The most common source, however, is an infection.
An ear infection occurs when bacteria or viruses invade the ear, often after a cold or allergy flare-up. Congestion blocks the eustachian tube and discharge cannot drain. This causes fluid to build up in the middle ear – the air-filled space behind the ear drum – or in the inner ear and creates an ideal environment for infection.
While adults may experience these issues, children are especially prone to them. Their developing ear structures make it easier for fluid to collect and harder for their bodies to fight off infection. As a result, many families seek urgent care for ear pain when home remedies fail.
In fact, pediatric ear infections are among the most common reasons parents seek urgent care for children, second only to colds and fevers.
If your child describes clogged, achy, or sharp, severe ear pain, or if you notice them tugging at their ears, visiting a clinic may be the quickest way to get answers. At CareWell Urgent Care, we treat both children and adults, offering effective ear pain relief through careful diagnosis and tailored ear infection treatment.
Our providers understand how disruptive ear pain can be – not just for the patient, but also for the entire family. We focus on getting you answers quickly so you can return to normal routines with peace of mind.
Signs It’s Time for Care
Ear pain can range from a mild nuisance to a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. Knowing when to visit urgent care can help prevent complications.
You should consider bringing your child – or yourself – for evaluation at CareWell if:
- Their ear pain is significant.
- Their symptoms have lasted longer than a day.
- They cannot sleep or are irritable.
- There is discharge (i.e., pus, blood, or fluid) coming from their ear.
- Your child has had multiple ear infections.
CareWell providers are trained to evaluate patients of all ages, from infants to adults. We welcome both scheduled and walk-in urgent care visits, so you can save your spot online or arrive when it’s most convenient.
Our team is here seven days a week, making us a reliable resource for families seeking prompt attention. For many patients, the ability to receive care without waiting for a primary care appointment makes our urgent care services the preferred choice. Plus, our flexible scheduling means you don’t have to let ear pain interfere with work, school, or family activities.
How We Diagnose and Treat Ear Infections
When you arrive at CareWell Urgent Care, your comfort is our priority. After reviewing your or your child’s symptoms, a provider will perform a thorough evaluation. A key part of this process is the otoscope exam, which allows providers to visually inspect the ear canal and eardrum. Redness, swelling, or fluid behind the eardrum can all signal a middle ear infection.
If an infection is diagnosed, treatment depends on factors such as patient age, symptom severity, and infection duration. In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed when bacterial involvement is clear. Patients are instructed to complete the full course to reduce the risk of recurrence. For viral infections, symptom management may include pain relievers and warm compresses until the infection clears naturally.
Our providers are trained to treat both adult and pediatric ear infections, so families can feel confident that all members receive appropriate care. We also provide specialized urgent care testing when additional diagnostics are needed, particularly if an infection is linked to underlying conditions.
Symptoms of Ear Infections in Kids and Adults
Recognizing ear infection symptoms early can prevent worsening discomfort. Symptoms often vary depending on age.
In children, you need to watch for:
- Frequent ear pulling or rubbing
- Unexplained fussiness or irritability
- Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds
- Fever of 100°F or higher
- Loss of appetite
- Balance issues or clumsiness
In adults, symptoms may include:
- Sharp or throbbing ear pain
- Sensation of fullness or blockage
- Temporary hearing loss
- Persistent ringing in the ear
- Noticeable ear discharge
These signs should never be ignored. If left untreated, ear infections can impact hearing and, in severe cases, lead to complications beyond the ear itself. Families often turn to CareWell for quick relief and answers.
FAQs About Ear Infections
Families often come into our urgent care center for ear infections and have questions about what to expect. Below, we’ve addressed some of the questions we hear most often from both parents and adult patients.
Are ear infections contagious?
The infection itself isn’t spread person-to-person. However, the underlying virus or bacteria that triggered it can be. Practicing good hygiene – including regular handwashing – helps to reduce transmission.
Should I go to urgent care for my ears?
Yes. Urgent care clinics like CareWell specialize in treating common conditions such as ear pain. Our providers can quickly diagnose the problem and recommend safe, effective treatment.
How much does urgent care charge for earaches?
Costs vary depending on insurance coverage and treatment needed. We offer transparent pricing and accepts most major insurance plans, making our care accessible for families.
At what point should I go to the doctor for ear pain?
If pain persists beyond a day, is severe, or is accompanied by fever, hearing loss, or fluid discharge, it’s time to seek care. Persistent or recurring pain should never be ignored as it can lead to long-lasting damage.
Can I go to urgent care for something stuck in my ear?
Yes. Our providers are trained to handle foreign objects in the ear safely. Avoid trying to remove them at home, as this may push the object deeper or cause damage.
Walk In or Save Your Spot for Fast Relief
If you or your child is dealing with an ear infection, there’s no need to wait days for a primary care appointment. CareWell Urgent Care offers both pediatric urgent care and adult services, making us a practical choice for the entire family.
With clinics open seven days a week, we’re ready to provide quick relief and treatment whenever you need it. Patients can walk in at any time or reserve a spot online for added convenience.
Our team is committed to addressing everything from simple ear discomfort to more complex infections. We’ll help you understand the problem, explain the treatment plan clearly, and provide fast relief so you can get back to daily life with confidence.
Don’t let ear pain linger. Visit us at one of our locations across Massachusetts and Rhode Island today for compassionate care close to home.
