Ear infections are caused by bacteria or viruses that are painful because of fluid buildup. If you think you have an ear infection, you need to visit one of the doctors in Springfield, Northampton, and Ware, MA, at Ear Nose & Throat, Surgeons of Western New England.

Types of ear infections

Ear infections can be chronic or acute:

• Chronic ear infections don’t clear up or they recur and may cause permanent damage to the middle and inner ear.
• Acute ear infections have a short duration.

What are the symptoms of ear infections?

• Ears swell
• Blockage because of fluid build-up in the middle ear
• Pain or discomfort inside the ear
• Persistent pressure inside the ear
• Infants may become fussy
• Pus-like ear drainage
• Hearing loss
• Children may experience fever

What may be the cause of an ear infection?

• allergies
• colds
• sinus infections
• excess mucus
• smoking
• changes in air pressure

What treatments are available?

There are a variety of treatment options available but first, you need to speak with your ENT specialist about what's best for you when visiting their offices in Springfield, Northampton, and Ware.

Mild ear infections may require applying a warm cloth to the infected ear, using over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication like ibuprofen, or using prescription ear drops.

If symptoms worsen, schedule an appointment with your doctor. they will diagnose the type of ear infection you have and prescribe antibiotics appropriately (This also applies to children).

Note, you must finish the entire course of antibiotics and surgery may be an option if your ear infection isn’t eliminated with non-invasive or medicinal treatments.

Need to speak with a specialist?

At Ear Nose & Throat, Surgeons of Western New England, your doctors can diagnose and treat ear infections. Call any of their three MA locations in Springfield at 413-732-7426, in Northampton at 413-586-2033, or in Ware at 413-967-2249.