Westwood Family Medicine

Ear infection and ear pain care in Bluefield, Virginia

An ear infection is usually an infection of the middle ear, the space behind the eardrum. It is most common in young children and often follows a cold. Signs include ear pain, fever, trouble sleeping and, in babies, tugging at the ear. Many get better in two or three days; some need antibiotics.

From the care team at Westwood Family Medicine. Updated October 12, 2026.

What are the signs of an ear infection?

Older children and adults can usually tell you their ear hurts. In babies and toddlers, watch for:

  • Tugging or pulling at an ear
  • Fussiness, crying more than usual or trouble sleeping
  • Fever
  • Fluid draining from the ear
  • Trouble hearing or not responding to quiet sounds

Is it an ear infection or swimmer's ear?

A middle ear infection happens behind the eardrum and often comes with a cold. Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, often after swimming or getting water trapped in the ear. Swimmer's ear usually hurts more when you pull on the ear or press the flap in front of it. The two are treated differently, so it helps to have the ear looked at.

How are ear infections treated?

Dr. Le looks inside the ear with a lighted scope to see the eardrum. Many middle ear infections clear up on their own, so for some older children and adults with mild symptoms, the best plan is pain relief and a short wait to see if it improves. Young children, people with severe pain or high fever, and infections that do not improve usually get antibiotics.

Swimmer's ear is usually treated with ear drops. For any ear pain, over-the-counter pain relievers can help if they are safe for you or your child.

What to expect at your visit

  1. Walk in Monday through Saturday, or call ahead for a time.
  2. We check temperature and vital signs.
  3. Dr. Le examines both ears, the throat and the neck.
  4. You leave with a plan for pain relief and, if needed, antibiotics or ear drops.

Common questions about ear infections and ear pain

Do ear infections always need antibiotics?

No. Many middle ear infections get better on their own within two or three days. Antibiotics are usually recommended for babies, young children with fever or pain in both ears, severe symptoms, or infections that do not improve. Your doctor will help you decide.

Can adults get ear infections?

Yes. Ear infections are most common in children, but adults get them too, often after a cold, sinus infection or allergies. Adults with ear pain, hearing changes or drainage should have the ear checked.

Where can my child be seen for an ear infection in Bluefield?

Westwood Family Medicine in Bluefield, Virginia sees children and adults with ear pain Monday through Saturday, including Saturday urgent care. Walk-ins are welcome.

Learn more from trusted sources

This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.

Call the clinic

Book an appointment