Ear pain is commonly caused by an infection of the inner or middle area. The pain can be intense and may cause hearing difficulty, balance issues, and fluid drainage from the ear. Some mild ear infections can be treated at home, but to help you determine when professional care is necessary, below are a few different scenarios that signal the need for treatment from a family medicine provider.

Ear Pain With High Fever

If a high fever comes on suddenly with ear pain, see a family medicine provider as soon as possible. While elevated temperature is not uncommon with ear infections, a sudden or unusually high fever should always be checked out by a professional, especially in children. Children over the age of three with a temperature of at least 102 degrees and adults with a temperature of at least 103 degrees, when accompanied by ear discomfort, should seek medical treatment.

Ear Pain With Swelling Under or Behind the Ear

In certain cases, you may be able to see or feel swelling, a lump, or knot underneath or behind the ear. This could potentially be a swollen lymph node and should promptly be checked out by a family medicine provider. Swollen lymph nodes can be an indicator of any number of different conditions, including infection, inflammation, and cancer.

Ear Pain That Worsens

If mild ear pain progressively worsens, get medical attention sooner rather than later. Untreated ear infections can develop into much more serious issues, such as perforated eardrums, paralysis of facial nerves, meningitis, and hearing loss. In most cases, ear infections can be eradicated by taking a full course of antibiotics.

When in doubt, always see a family medicine provider in the event of ear pain. Taylor Regional Hospital Walk-In Clinic offers medical treatment to the Campbellsville, KY, and Taylor County areas. This trusted walk-in clinic provides a variety of healthcare services for non-emergency and non-urgent conditions. From strep testing to urinalysis, from venipuncture to women's health services, their providers are here for you. Call (270) 849-2379 or visit them online for a full list of conditions they treat.