Since Upper Respiratory Infection was going around last week, it’s not surprising that this week Otitis Media (a.k.a. middle ear infection) is What’s Going Around. Ear infections are often caused by a virus, like a cold, but they can also be caused by bacteria.
Almost half of the Centra Care centers around town have seen an increase of 100% – 500% in patients with ear infection:
Dr. Phillips – 500%
Sand Lake – 250%
Hunter’s Creek – 200%
Winter Park – 180%
Formosa and Longwood – 150%
Lee Road & Sanford – 100%
Otitis Media occurs when the ear lining becomes swollen, and fluid builds up – that can cause ear pain and infection.
What Are the Symptoms of an Ear Infection?
* Earache (either a sharp, sudden pain or a dull, continuous pain).
* Fever and chills
* Nasal congestion may accompany or precede an ear infection.
* A feeling of fullness in the ear.
* Nausea may accompany an earache.
* Muffled hearing
* Ear drainage
What to look for in young children:
* Tugging at the ear
* Sleeplessness
* Fever
* Irritability
* Ear drainage
* Diminished appetite
* Crying when lying down
Because of complications associated with ear infections, it’s important to see a physician to determine what is causing your earache. If it’s bacterial in nature, antibiotics may be needed to clear it up.
When do you need to see a doctor?
* If an ear hurts, only your doctor can tell if there is an infection in the middle ear that will require an antibiotic.
* If you or your child has difficulty hearing.
* If you or your child has any fluid or blood draining from the ear.
Centra Care now has No Wait, Online Reservations. The Internet-based reservation program allows patients to choose their appointment time at any of 18 locations. Walk-ins are always welcome at Centra Care, but the new No Wait Reservations program will significantly cut down on wait time. Centra Care is open 7 Days a Week. For more information visit: www.CentraCare.org
