When should I go to the ER for ear infections?

Choosing the right level of care for an ear infection is mostly about timing and severity. Here is how to decide where to go.

Go to the ER Now

Head to Bellaire ER, open 24/7, if you have any of these:

• Swelling, redness, or tenderness behind the ear that pushes it forward (a possible sign of mastoiditis).
• A very high fever (especially over 104°F), or any fever in an infant under 3 months.
• Stiff neck, severe headache, confusion, or hard-to-wake drowsiness.
• Facial drooping, sudden hearing loss, or new dizziness with vomiting.
• Severe or rapidly worsening ear pain.
• Ear pain after a head injury, or a suspected object or insect in the ear canal.

Call 911 instead of driving for trouble breathing, seizure, or a child who cannot be woken.

When a Virtual Visit Is Usually Enough

For a typical earache without red flags, telemedicine is often the fastest first step. A clinician can review your symptoms, guide pain control, and prescribe antibiotics when appropriate, such as for swimmer’s ear or a clear middle-ear infection, all without leaving home.

When You Need Someone to Look at It in Person

Choose an in-person visit when a clinician needs to actually look inside the ear, when symptoms last more than a couple of days, or for recurring infections. Your primary doctor is also ideal for follow-up and for children with frequent ear trouble.

The Timing Rule of Thumb

Mild ear infections often improve within a few days with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If symptoms are stable, watchful waiting or a virtual visit is reasonable. If they escalate, spread, or hit a red flag, do not wait, go to the ER.

For a complete guide, see our ear infections page. Bellaire ER is open 24/7 at 5302 Bellaire Blvd. Walk in anytime or call (713) 660-0001.