SERVICES

Ear Infection

An ear infection can be an incredibly painful experience, and finding relief is a top priority. That’s why Dr. Nichola Patton, DNP, MSN, MBA, AGACNP-BC, and Angel Cejo Vaquer, NP, include this common complaint as one of the many health issues they can address through NP Healthcare Group. The practice serves 20 states via telehealth visits, and scheduling can be done online or over the phone. 



Ear Infection FAQ's

What are some symptoms of an ear infection?


An ear infection happens when a bacterial or viral infection develops in the space behind your eardrum. It’s a common complaint among parents of small children, but you can develop an ear infection at any age. 


Knowing what to look for can help you decide when to seek treatment for yourself or someone you care about. Common symptoms for an ear infection include:


  • Pain or pressure in the ear
  • Changes in your ability to hear
  • Fluid coming from the ear
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Sore throat

While you can’t “catch” an ear infection from someone else, the bacteria and viruses that lead to ear infections are often contagious. If someone you live or work with comes down with an ear infection, your own risk level rises. 


When is the right time to get treated for an ear infection?


Left untreated, an ear infection can quickly become very painful and can even spread to nearby tissues like your bone. A torn eardrum is also possible. While some eardrum tears can heal on their own, others require professional treatment. 


It’s also important to know that an untreated ear infection can worsen and threaten your hearing. There’s no need to suffer from the pain and disruption that an ear infection brings when treatment is just a call or click away. 


How can a telehealth visit help with an ear infection?


Telehealth visits begin with an exploration of your current set of symptoms and your health history. When it comes to ear infections, some people seem to encounter them again and again. 


Your provider can get you started on the right treatment path for your needs. Antibiotics are a very common treatment option and work by killing the bacteria that cause ear infections. But you need to take all of these medications as prescribed. Stopping antibiotics early can lead to a re-infection that can be even worse the second time. 


When you need care, the team at NP Healthcare Group is here to help. Booking a telehealth visit is fast and easy, with phone and online booking options available.