Pacific Head & Neck is home to top otolaryngologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of all ear, nose, and throat disorders, including ear infections and swimmer’s ear. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, you may have an ear infection. Our board-certified otolaryngologists will first diagnose your condition and then suggest treatment options, which include antibiotics, ear drops, or surgery in severe cases.
What are ear infections?
Most ear infections are middle ear infections, also known as otitis media (OM). The majority of cases occur in children under age five, although they can happen in adults, especially after a cold, flu, or sinus infection. OM is the most common condition that causes pain and hearing loss in children, which is why parents often seek an ENT doctor for earache treatment.
Another type of ear infection that can occur is an outer ear infection, also known as otitis externa or “swimmer’s ear”. It is caused by excessive water in the ear.
Diagnosis
An ear infection can be diagnosed by:
- Test:
- CT scans
- MRI
- Hearing and balance tests