👂 Understanding Ear Infections – Internist in Georgetown TX

Feeling pain, pressure, or weird sounds in your ear? You’re not alone. Ear infections are common — even in adults — and they can cause discomfort, muffled hearing, or dizziness. The good news? Most are treatable and improve quickly with the right care.

At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we take time to explain everything in plain English — and help you or your loved one feel better fast. If you’ve been searching for a caring, thorough internist in Georgetown TX, we’re here for you.

🔎 What Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection happens when fluid, bacteria, or inflammation builds up inside the ear. There are two common types:

• Otitis Media – Infection or fluid in the middle ear (behind the eardrum)

• Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear) – Infection in the outer ear canal

These infections can affect anyone — but certain things like allergies, recent colds, or swimming can make them more likely.

🔊 Common Symptoms of an Ear Infection

You might notice:

• Ear pain or fullness

• Muffled or reduced hearing

• Fluid draining from the ear

• Dizziness or balance issues

• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

• Low-grade fever or fatigue

Symptoms may come on suddenly or build slowly over a few days. Some people feel like their ear is “blocked” or “underwater.”

⚠️ Who’s at Risk?

• Children and seniors

• People with allergies or sinus issues

• Recent upper respiratory infections

• Swimmers or those exposed to humid environments

• Hearing aid or earbud users (when not cleaned regularly)

At our family medical clinic in Georgetown TX, we help patients of all ages with gentle ear exams and personalized care.

🩺 How We Help – Internist in Georgetown TX

When you visit Wellness Bay, we:

• Gently examine the ear canal and eardrum

• Check for redness, fluid, or swelling

• Rule out other causes like wax buildup or TMJ

• Prescribe antibiotics if needed (but only when appropriate)

• Offer ear drops, nasal sprays, or supportive treatments

We’ll also talk about prevention tips so you’re not dealing with this again and again.

🌿 Home Remedies & Lifestyle Tips

For mild symptoms or to support healing:

• Use a warm compress behind the ear

• Try over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen

• Keep the ear dry and clean

• Gently blow your nose — never forcefully

• Avoid using cotton swabs deep in the ear

• Use saline spray for nasal congestion

Always check with your doctor before using any home treatment — especially if you have diabetes or immune conditions.

❓ Top 10 FAQs – Ear Infections in Adults

👂 Can adults get ear infections too?

Yes! They’re less common than in kids, but still happen — especially with allergies or sinus congestion.

👂 Is it always caused by bacteria?

No — many infections are viral or due to trapped fluid. That’s why not all ear infections need antibiotics.

👂 How long does it last?

With treatment, most infections improve within 3–7 days.

👂 Do I always need antibiotics?

Not always. We evaluate carefully and explain all your options.

👂 Can I still fly with an ear infection?

We recommend delaying flights if possible, or using nasal sprays and chewing gum to help equalize pressure.

👂 What if it keeps coming back?

We’ll investigate further — allergies, chronic fluid buildup, or structural issues may be involved.

👂 Does it cause hearing loss?

Temporary hearing changes are common, but permanent hearing loss is rare with proper care.

👂 Can I clean my ears with Q-tips?

Avoid putting anything deep into the ear — it can push wax in or damage the canal. Ask us for safe alternatives.

👂 Is ear pain always an infection?

No — sometimes it’s referred pain from jaw issues or dental problems. We’ll help sort it out.

👂 Why Wellness Bay?

Because we care, we listen, and we don’t rush. You’ll get the time and attention you deserve.

👩‍⚕️ When to See a Doctor

Visit us if:

• Ear pain lasts more than a day or worsens

• You have hearing changes or dizziness

• You notice fluid, bleeding, or a bad odor

• You’ve had multiple ear infections recently

• You need a trusted internist in Georgetown TX who takes time to explain everything

You don’t have to suffer through the pain — we’re here to help gently and thoroughly.