Earache

IAM Healthy Our Services Earache

IAM Healthy

Family Physicians & Geriatric Physicians located in Apopka, FL

Ear pain isn’t just something kids get. Adults may suffer earaches due to an infection, allergies, or impacted wax. If your ear is hurting, consult the expert team of providers at IAM Healthy in Apopka, Florida. They’ll evaluate your symptoms to determine the best way to treat and resolve your earache. Call today or book an appointment using the online tool.

Earache Q & A

What causes an earache?

An earache can result from a number of triggers. These include:

  • Allergies
  • Buildup of earwax
  • Infection in the canal
  • Cold or upper respiratory infection
  • Injury or trauma, including from loud noises

The team at IAM Healthy considers all of these possible causes along with your medical history and symptoms when diagnosing the reason for your earache.

Can adults get ear infections?

Ear infections are common in children, but adults aren’t immune. Infections occur in the middle ear. There’s a space filled with air behind the eardrum that contains tiny bones that can trap bacteria to create a painful infection. Often these infections clear up on their own, and you just need help managing the pain. In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed to clear up the infection.

When should I see a doctor for an ear infection?

Mild-to-moderate ear pain may resolve on its own. But, if you have symptoms that last for more than a day or are severe, call IAM Healthy for an evaluation. You should definitely reach out if you see discharge of bloody fluid or pus. An earache accompanied by a fever also warrants a call to the office.

What causes earwax to build up?

If you produce an excess amount of wax or existing wax builds up and isn’t naturally flushed from the ear, you’re vulnerable to a painful buildup. Frequently, earwax becomes impacted if pushed deeply into the ear with swabs or other items.

If your earache is due to too much wax, you may have the following symptoms along with pain:

  • Itching in the ear
  • Discharge from the ear
  • Muffled hearing
  • Ringing in the ear

Earwax buildup can also lead to dizziness and ear infections.

How is excess earwax removed?

You can use at-home measures such as adding drops of mineral oil inside your ear and cleaning your ear’s outer area thoroughly with a washcloth. For stubborn earwax and ear pain, you may require a prescription solution that softens and breaks up the wax.

If you have ear pain, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at IAM Healthy. Call the office or book online today.

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