Earache treatment, diagnosis & prescriptions
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Can a doctor treat earaches on Maple?
In many cases, doctors are able to provide treatment for earaches on Maple.
If the doctor suspects you have a more serious problem, they may suggest you go to a clinic for a thorough physical examination.
Can I get a prescription on Maple?
Yes, our physicians can prescribe medications online during your consultation. Once you accept a prescription, you’ll have the option to pick it up from any pharmacy or we’ll deliver it right to your door at no additional cost.
You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.
What is an earache?
Earaches, also known as otalgia, can be due to many different causes. While infections of the middle ear (otitis media) or outer ear (otitis externa) are common causes, other issues such as trauma, throat infections, and sinus infections can all lead to severe ear pain.
Middle ear infection (otitis media) – this is very common in children, and occurs when the middle ear becomes infected. The middle ear is located behind the eardrum and connects to the upper respiratory tract. When it becomes clogged, it creates a perfect environment for germs and bacteria that have entered from the nasal cavity, leading to an ear infection.
Outer ear infection/swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) – this occurs when the outer opening of the ear and the ear canal become infected due to excess moisture. When water is left inside the ear canal, bacteria and/or fungus can rapidly grow.
What are the symptoms of earaches?
Symptoms of earaches differ in children and adults. Symptoms also vary depending on the root cause of the earache.
Common symptoms of otitis media:
- Feeling of fullness in the ear
- Muffled hearing
- Nausea
- Sharp, sudden, and/or continuous pain in the ear
Common symptoms of otitis externa:
- Heat around and in the ear
- Itching
- Muffled hearing
- Pain and general ear discomfort
- Red ears
- Swelling of the ear
- Thick discharge from the ear canal
Common symptoms in children:
- Crying when lying down
- Ear drainage
- Fever
- General irritability and restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Poor sleep
What is the treatment for earaches?
Ear infections caused by bacteria often resolve on their own within 48 hours. Antibiotics can be taken if the infection does not resolve naturally.
If you have unbearable aches, you can choose to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
You should see a doctor if:
- Fever rises above 38 C (100.4 F)
- You or your child get repetitive ear infections
- You or your child have difficulty hearing
What is Maple?
With Maple, you can start talking to a doctor about your symptoms in a matter of minutes. We’re a healthcare app for fast, convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.
You simply log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll immediately connect you to a doctor via live chat or video.
Our doctors can assess symptoms, and provide treatment, including prescriptions as necessary.
You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.
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At 1:30 am, I realized I had a UTI and was desperate for help. I went online and within ten minutes, I had my prescription faxed to my pharmacy. This service gave me peace of mind.
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Amazing service! It was great being able to connect with a doctor from the comfort of home late at night.
If it wasn't for this service, I would be clogging up the emergency rooms for a prescription refill. A much needed service in my area.
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