Ear Pain & Otitis Media in Gurnee & Libertyville
Ear infections are one of the most common reasons children see a doctor—and adults can get them too. Otitis media refers to inflammation or infection in the middle ear, often following a cold or allergy flare. It can cause pain, hearing loss, and sometimes fluid buildup behind the eardrum. At Lake County ENT, we’ll find out why it’s happening and help you or your child recover comfortably and safely.
What it is
An infection or inflammation of the middle ear—usually from bacteria or viruses trapped behind the eardrum.
Who it affects
Most common in children under 6, but can occur at any age—especially with allergies, colds, or Eustachian tube problems.
How we help
Precise ear exams, hearing tests, and treatment plans including medication, monitoring, or ear tubes if needed.
Recurring ear pain or hearing loss? We’ll identify the cause and help prevent future infections.
Common Symptoms
- Ear pain or pressure
- Drainage from the ear
- Temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Fever, irritability, or restlessness in children
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Fullness or popping sensation in the ear
Why It Happens
- Eustachian tube blockage: Often from colds, sinus infections, or allergies.
- Fluid buildup: Creates pressure and reduces eardrum movement.
- Bacterial or viral infection: Can develop after congestion or cold symptoms.
- Enlarged adenoids: May block drainage and contribute to recurrent infections.
- Secondhand smoke or daycare exposure: Increase risk in children.
When to call us: Ear pain lasting more than a day, persistent drainage, new hearing loss, or repeated infections—especially in children.
Call 911 for severe dizziness, vomiting, high fever, swelling behind the ear, or sudden facial weakness.
How We Diagnose It
Our Evaluation
We’ll perform a focused ear and hearing exam to check for redness, fluid, or pressure changes behind the eardrum.
- Otoscopy or microscope ear exam
- Assessment of prior infections and medical history
- Review of allergy, sinus, or respiratory symptoms
Tests We May Use
- Audiogram: Measures hearing at different tones and pitches.
- Tympanogram: Tests eardrum movement and middle-ear pressure.
- Imaging (if chronic): Helps rule out deeper infection or structural issues.
Not sure if that earache needs treatment? We’ll take a closer look and give you peace of mind.
Treatment Options
Medical Care
- Antibiotics: When infection is bacterial and persistent.
- Decongestants / antihistamines: For congestion or allergy-related swelling.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter or prescription options; drops may help in certain cases.
- Monitoring: Some mild cases resolve on their own under observation.
Procedures & Prevention
- Ear tubes: Small tubes inserted in the eardrum to improve drainage and prevent recurrence.
- Adenoid or tonsil surgery: Considered for chronic or recurrent infections.
- Allergy management: Helps reduce inflammation and fluid buildup.
Tired of repeated ear infections? Let’s stop the cycle and restore healthy hearing.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Visit Steps
- Listen & evaluate: Review symptoms, history, and prior infections.
- Targeted exam/testing: Ear exam and hearing evaluation as needed.
- Plan together: Medication, observation, or ENT procedures when necessary.
Good to Know
- Most ear infections improve quickly with treatment.
- Hearing typically returns to normal after inflammation resolves.
- Ongoing fluid may take weeks to clear even after symptoms improve.
Questions about ear pain or treatment options? We’re here to help.
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Ready to stop the ear pain? We’ll get you or your child comfortable and hearing clearly again.