Ear Infection (Otitis Media / Otitis Externa)
What Is It?
Otitis media: infection of the middle ear, common in adults after URI. Otitis externa (swimmer ear): infection of the ear canal. Both cause ear pain, pressure, and hearing changes.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Otoscopy (erythema, bulging TM for OM; canal edema/discharge for OE). Tympanometry for middle ear effusion.
How Is It Treated?
Otitis media: amoxicillin 5-7 days (most adults). Pain management. Otitis externa: topical antibiotic-corticosteroid ear drops (ciprofloxacin-dexamethasone). Keep ear dry.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Clinical otoscopy exam primarily. Audiometry if hearing loss persists.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Ear drops (OE): $20-$60. Amoxicillin: $5-$10.