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Online Treatment for Ear Infections
Estimated wait time: 5 minutes or less
What is an ear infection?
An ear infection is an irritation and swelling of the ear. There are different types of infections, including outer (acute otitis externa) and middle (acute otitis media) ear infections.
Symptoms of an ear infection
- Ear Pain
- Trouble hearing
- Drainage of fluid from the ear
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of balance
- Fever
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping
- Fussiness
- Tugging of the ear
What causes an inner ear infection?
What causes an outer ear infection?
An outer ear infection, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, is caused by bacteria or fungi that enter the ear canal and multiply. This occurs when water is trapped in the ear canal, providing a moist environment for bacteria or fungi to grow.
What causes an outer ear infection?
- We’ll ask about your symptoms and medical history.
- If you have a digital otoscope, we’ll assess the inside of the ear. If you do not have one available, we may recommend visiting an in-person provider for an accurate diagnosis.
- We’ll create a treatment plan and advise on how to manage symptoms.
- We’ll prescribe antibiotics to be taken orally or to be inserted into the ear, if necessary.
Effective online treatment for an ear infection
Telehealth treatment for an ear infection typically involves pain management and/or prescription antibiotics to be taken orally or to be inserted into the ear. The goal is to help the ear infection resolve itself or in some cases, kill the bacteria that caused the infection.
Common medications we prescribe for an ear infection
The treatment for an ear infection depends on the cause and severity. If a bacterial infection is suspected, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics such as:
- Amoxicillin – First-line antibiotic for bacterial ear infections.
- Augmentin (Amoxicillin-Clavulanate) – Used if the infection is resistant to standard amoxicillin.
- Cefdinir or Cefpodoxime – Alternatives for those allergic to penicillin.
- Azithromycin or Clarithromycin – Used in cases of severe penicillin allergy.
- Antibiotics drops for "swimmer's ear" or otitis externa (Cortisporin or Ciprofloxacin)
For symptom relief, providers may also recommend:
- Antipyrine-Benzocaine Ear Drops – To help with ear pain (not for ruptured eardrums).
- Decongestants or Antihistamines – If congestion or allergies contribute to ear discomfort.
- Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen – To reduce pain and fever.
If the infection is viral, antibiotics may not be necessary, and supportive care like pain relievers and fluids is recommended. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment for your specific case.
How to care for an ear infection
- Use a warm compress over the ear to help relieve the pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Avoid cleaning the ear canal with cotton swabs.
- Avoid getting water in the ear while you have an infection.
How online Ear Infection treatment works
Our virtual care process is designed to be simple and convenient, providing you with expert healthcare from the comfort of your home. Whether you're dealing with minor symptoms or need guidance on a more persistent issue, our licensed providers are ready to help. Here's how easy it is to get started:
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Common questions you may have about online ear infection treatment.
Can I book a telehealth visit for an ear infection?
Yes, you can book a telehealth visit for an ear infection using HLTHi. Consulting with a doctor online involves discussing your symptoms, medical history, and visually assessing the ear with a digital otoscope. Since our providers can not see inside your ear canal, we may recommend visiting an in-person provider.
Are ear infections contagious?
What are common triggers of an ear infection?
How can I prevent an ear infection?
How can I prevent an ear infection?
** Included one visit per month, any additional visits are $25 in a single month cycle.
NPI: 1164275962