If you ever experience an ear infection, the audiologists at Anthony Durig Audiology in Stow, OH, recommend visiting your doctor. Their staff works closely with patients who have hearing problems, so they understand the importance of protecting your ears from bacterial infections. They encourage you to rest and take some medication to relieve pain and eliminate the infection quickly.

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, take the following audiologist-recommended steps to ensure a short recovery and prevent further health problems:

• Take Pain Relievers: Many doctors will prescribe pain relievers for ear infections, but you can use over-the-counter medication too. This is especially important before you go to bed to ensure a good night’s rest.
• Use a Heat Compress: An alternative to medication is a heat compress. Take a washcloth and soak it in warm water. Then, place it over the infected ear and wait for the pain to subside.
• Catch Up on Sleep: Since your body is fighting off a bacterial infection, it’s smart to get plenty of sleep. This will allow your immune system to battle the bacteria and get you back to normal as soon as possible.
• Apply Ear Drops: Follow the directions on the bottle to ensure you don’t damage your ears. If your health provider doesn’t recommend using ear drops, then follow their advice.

Knowing how to properly treat an ear infection is extremely important, especially if you use a hearing aid. To learn more about the audiologists at Anthony Durig Audiology, call (330) 688-4115 or visit them online for a complete list of products and services, including hearing testing, hearing aid repair and hearing assistance device sales.