Ear Infection Treatment in Houston

We understand the frustration and discomfort that ear infections can bring — the throbbing pain, muffled hearing, and disrupted sleep that can make even simple daily activities challenging. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden onset of symptoms or have been struggling with recurring infections for months, the physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming.

At Kaplan Sinus Relief in Houston, we’re committed to providing the relief and care you deserve. We provide a full spectrum of ear infection treatment in Houston, from conservative medical management to innovative surgical interventions. Our treatment options include targeted antibiotic therapy, professional ear cleaning, and advanced procedures such as balloon sinuplasty to address underlying sinus issues that may contribute to ear infections.

For patients with chronic or recurrent conditions, Dr. Michael Kaplan specializes in eustachian tube balloon dilation and ear tube placement, which can provide long-term relief by improving ear drainage and ventilation, reducing the frequency and severity of infections.

Don’t let ear pain and infections control your life any longer. Schedule a consultation with our team today to discover the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

What are the different types of ear infections?

Ear infections can affect different parts of the ear, each with distinct symptoms and treatment approaches.

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection): The most common type, occurring in the space behind the eardrum. This infection often results from fluid buildup due to colds, allergies, or eustachian tube dysfunction. Children are particularly susceptible because their eustachian tubes are shorter and more horizontal than adults’.
Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear): An infection of the ear canal that runs from the eardrum to the outside of the ear. Typically caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or excessive moisture that creates an environment for bacterial growth. Symptoms include itching, redness, and pain when touching the outer ear.
Otitis Media with Effusion (OME): This condition occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear without signs of infection. While not painful, it can cause a feeling of fullness and temporary hearing loss. OME often follows an ear infection or can result from blockage of the eustachian tubes.
Chronic Otitis Media: Refers to a long-term infection or inflammation of the middle ear that persists or recurs frequently. This condition may lead to permanent changes in the eardrum or surrounding structures and requires specialized treatment from an ENT for ear infections.
Mastoiditis: A serious but rare infection of the mastoid bone located behind the ear. Usually develops as a complication of untreated middle ear infections and requires immediate medical attention.
Labyrinthitis: An infection of the inner ear structures responsible for balance and hearing. This condition can cause severe dizziness, hearing loss, and balance problems, often requiring specialized treatment.

At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we understand that different types of ear infections require tailored treatment approaches. For some patients, conservative treatments like antibiotics and pain management may be sufficient. For others with chronic or recurrent infections, advanced procedures such as eustachian tube balloon dilation or ear tube placement might provide the most effective long-term solution.

Dr. Kaplan’s expertise in both traditional and innovative treatments ensures that you’ll receive the most appropriate care for your specific condition.

Ear infection symptoms

Ear infections can affect people of all ages, though they’re particularly common in children. The symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and they may appear suddenly or develop gradually over time. Being aware of the following warning signs can help you determine when to seek professional care from Dr. Kaplan and his team.

Ear pain or discomfort, which may be sharp, dull, or burning
Difficulty hearing or temporary hearing loss
Drainage from the ear that may be clear, yellow, or bloody
Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Trouble balancing or dizziness
Fever, especially in children
Irritability and excessive crying in infants and young children
Tugging or pulling at the ear, particularly in children
Trouble sleeping due to ear discomfort
Headache or pain that radiates from the ear
Reduced appetite, particularly in children with severe ear pain

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t delay seeking professional care. Untreated ear infections can lead to more serious complications, including hearing loss, mastoiditis (infection of the bone behind the ear), or spread of infection to surrounding tissues.

Will an ear infection go away on its own?

It depends. Mild ear infections in adults might clear up on their own within a few days, especially if they’re caused by a virus. But waiting carries risks — untreated infections can get worse, spread to nearby areas, or cause hearing damage. For children, seniors, and people with weaker immune systems, seeing a doctor is always recommended rather than waiting it out.

Chronic or recurring ear infections usually need professional treatment to fix underlying problems. These persistent cases often signal issues like eustachian tube dysfunction or sinus problems that won’t resolve without help. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, Dr. Kaplan offers advanced solutions like balloon sinuplasty that address the root causes instead of just treating symptoms. It’s best to consult with our team rather than hoping these infections will disappear on their own.

When to see a doctor for an ear infection?

As mentioned, being able to recognize when to visit an ENT for ear infections can prevent complications and provide faster relief. See a doctor if you experience:

Severe ear pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
Symptoms lasting more than 2 – 3 days without improvement
Discharge from the ear, especially if it’s bloody or contains pus
Hearing loss or muffled hearing that doesn’t improve
High fever (over 102°F in adults or 100.4°F in infants)
Dizziness, loss of balance, or vertigo
Swelling or redness behind or around the ear
Recurring infections (more than 3 in 6 months or 4 in a year)
Symptoms in infants younger than 6 months
Ear pain following a recent respiratory infection

What is the quickest way to get rid of an ear infection? Professional diagnosis and targeted treatment from a specialist like Dr. Kaplan can significantly speed up recovery and provide immediate relief, especially if you are noticing any of the above symptoms. While home remedies might help manage symptoms, proper medical care addresses the underlying cause of the infection.

How to treat an ear infection in Houston

When it comes to addressing ear infections, Dr. Kaplan takes a patient-centered approach, considering factors such as the type and severity of your infection, your medical history, and whether you’re dealing with a one-time or recurring issue, offering you treatment options that could include one or more of the following:

Medical management

Medical management is often the first line of treatment for many ear infections, particularly those that are mild to moderate. This approach typically includes:

Oral antibiotics to fight bacterial infections, though viral infections won’t respond to antibiotic treatment.
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling.
Pain relievers to manage discomfort while the infection heals.
Prescription ear drops containing antibiotics, steroids, or both may be used to deliver medication directly to the infection site.

Medical management works well for many patients, especially those experiencing their first ear infection, but for those with chronic or recurrent infections, more advanced treatments may be necessary to address underlying issues.

Balloon sinuplasty

Balloon sinuplasty is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure that can help treat ear infections caused by underlying sinus issues. Many patients don’t realize that their recurring ear problems stem from sinus blockages that prevent proper drainage. During this procedure, Dr. Kaplan inserts a small balloon catheter into the blocked sinus passages and gently inflates it to restructure and widen the sinus openings. This improves drainage pathways, reduces pressure, and helps prevent the buildup of fluid that can lead to ear infections.

The procedure is performed in-office at Kaplan Sinus Relief, requires minimal recovery time, and has shown excellent success rates in reducing both sinus and ear infection recurrence. For patients with chronic sinusitis contributing to their ear problems, balloon sinuplasty offers a lasting solution without the need for traditional, more invasive sinus surgery.

Eustachian tube balloon dilation

Eustachian tube balloon dilation is a specialized procedure specifically designed to address ear infections related to eustachian tube dysfunction. The eustachian tubes connect your middle ears to the back of your throat and help regulate pressure and drain fluid. When these tubes become blocked or don’t function properly, fluid can accumulate in the middle ear, creating an ideal environment for infection.

During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Kaplan inserts a small catheter with a balloon through the nose and into the eustachian tube. The balloon is then gently inflated to expand the tube, improving its function and ability to properly ventilate and drain the middle ear. This procedure has proven highly effective for patients with chronic ear infections caused by eustachian tube issues and can provide long-lasting relief where traditional treatments have failed.

Ear tubes

Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) are tiny cylinders surgically placed through the eardrum to allow air into the middle ear and permit fluid to drain. This treatment is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing chronic ear infections or persistent fluid buildup that doesn’t respond to other treatments. For children who suffer from recurrent ear infections, ear tubes can be especially valuable as they reduce the need for repeated antibiotics and help prevent hearing loss that can affect speech and language development.

At Kaplan Sinus Relief, Dr. Kaplan performs ear tube placement as an outpatient procedure that typically takes less than 15 minutes. The tubes usually remain in place for 6 – 18 months before naturally falling out as the eardrum heals. For patients with persistent eustachian tube dysfunction, this treatment can provide much-needed relief from the cycle of recurring infections while addressing underlying drainage issues.

Ear infection treatment at home

While professional medical care is essential for properly treating ear infections, some ear infection treatments at home can help manage symptoms and support healing:

Apply a warm, clean cloth to the affected ear to help alleviate pain
Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce discomfort and fever
Keep the ear dry if you have swimmer’s ear — avoid swimming and use earplugs during showers
Rest with the affected ear facing upward to help drainage
Use an extra pillow to elevate your head while sleeping to reduce pressure
Avoid inserting anything into your ear canal, including cotton swabs
Try over-the-counter ear drops specifically designed for ear pain, but only if your eardrum is intact
Follow any prescribed medication regimens completely, even if symptoms improve

While these home treatments can help manage symptoms, some underlying causes, like wax buildup or frequent external infections, may require professional care. If this is the case, ask Dr. Kaplan about our professional ear cleaning in Houston that safely removes excess wax, debris, and discharge that can trap moisture and bacteria, creating an environment for infection.

Suffering from ear infection symptoms? Schedule your consultation at Kaplan Sinus Relief today!

For comprehensive ear infection treatment in Houston, trust the experienced team at Kaplan Sinus Relief to deliver exceptional care tailored to your specific needs. Dr. Kaplan’s advanced training and specialized expertise in treating ear, nose, and throat disorders ensure you receive the most effective treatments available today. We understand the connection between these interconnected systems and how issues in one area can affect others, allowing us to address not just your symptoms but the underlying causes of your ear infections.

Whether you’re experiencing your first ear infection or have been struggling with chronic issues for years, our patient-centered approach focuses on providing lasting solutions that improve your quality of life. Contact us today to discover why so many Houston residents trust Dr. Kaplan with their ear health.