Treatment for Ear Infections | Foggy Bottom Clinic

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Patient Information

Ear infections are among the most frequently diagnosed conditions in urgent care, particularly in young children. They can occur in the outer ear (otitis externa — often called swimmer's ear), the middle ear (otitis media — the most common form in children), or the inner ear. Understanding which part of the ear is affected guides both diagnosis and the most effective treatment approach.

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Types of Ear Infection

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Outer Ear

Otitis Externa

Infection of the ear canal, often triggered by water exposure. Known commonly as swimmer's ear. The ear canal becomes red, swollen, and painful.

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Middle Ear

Otitis Media

The most common form, especially in children. Fluid and bacteria collect behind the eardrum, causing pressure, pain, and often fever.

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Inner Ear

Labyrinthitis

Less common but more serious. Inflammation of the inner ear structures may affect balance and hearing. Can cause dizziness and vertigo.

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Common in children, but affects adults too Ear infections are especially prevalent in young children due to the shape and angle of the Eustachian tube, which makes drainage more difficult. However, adults — particularly those who swim regularly or develop respiratory infections — are also commonly affected.

Infants & toddlers School-age children Adults

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Signs & Symptoms

Pain or pressure in the ear Can range from mild aching to sharp, intense pain — often worse when lying down

Hearing loss or a feeling of fullness Muffled hearing or a blocked sensation — particularly common with middle ear infections

Fluid drainage from the ear Discharge of fluid or pus — more characteristic of outer ear infections or a perforated eardrum

Fever Especially common with middle ear infections — may be the primary sign in young infants

Irritability (especially in children) Young children who cannot verbalise pain may become unusually fussy, cry more than usual, or pull at their ears

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Diagnostic Evaluation

Ear Exam (Otoscopy) Standard

A visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope. The physician assesses the eardrum for redness, bulging, perforation, or fluid behind it — these findings guide the diagnosis and determine whether bacterial or viral infection is more likely.

Tympanometry If Needed

An objective test that measures pressure within the middle ear by assessing how the eardrum moves in response to changes in air pressure. Ordered when the otoscopy findings are equivocal or when middle ear fluid needs to be confirmed in children with recurrent ear infections.

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Treatment Options

Pain Relief Acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage ear pain and reduce fever. Appropriate dosing is determined by the patient's age and weight — especially important in children.

Warm Compress Applying a warm, damp cloth gently against the outer ear can help ease pain and pressure. This is a safe, effective comfort measure for both children and adults while awaiting antibiotic treatment or during recovery.

Antibiotics Prescribed when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected. The form of antibiotic depends on the type and location of infection.

Ear drops — outer ear infections Oral antibiotics — middle ear infections

Decongestants Used for middle ear infections associated with nasal congestion or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Decongestants help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, improving drainage from the middle ear and relieving the sensation of pressure and fullness.

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Follow-Up Guidance

Return if symptoms do not improve within 48–72 hours

If ear pain, fever, or other symptoms are not beginning to resolve within 48–72 hours of starting treatment, or if new symptoms such as dizziness or significant hearing loss develop, return promptly for re-evaluation. This may indicate antibiotic resistance or the need for a different treatment approach.

Recurrent ear infections — ENT referral recommended

Patients who experience repeated ear infections should be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further assessment. Recurrent middle ear infections in children may require specialist intervention such as the insertion of ventilation tubes (grommets) to improve drainage and prevent ongoing hearing difficulties.

Same-day care available

Walk in or book a same-day appointment. Call first for urgent care — average wait under 15 minutes.

Schedule a Visit Online Consult — $89

Or call 202.463.5141

👂 Quick Facts

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Most common in childrenEspecially ages 6 months – 2 years due to Eustachian tube anatomy

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Bacterial & viral causesMiddle ear infections often follow a cold or upper respiratory illness

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Swimmer's ear riskOuter ear infections more common after prolonged water exposure

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ENT referralRecommended for recurrent or complicated cases

🕐 Clinic Hours

Mon – Fri8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday8:30 am – 1:00 pm

SundayClosed

📍 Find Us

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Address908 New Hampshire Ave NW
Suite 400, Washington, DC 20037
(24th and I)

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Phone202.463.5141

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PaymentMost insurance plans ,Medicare accepted & all major credit cards