Can Urgent Care Treat an Ear Infection?

Quick Answer:

Yes, urgent care can diagnose and treat ear infections in both children and adults. They'll examine your ear, determine the type of infection, and prescribe antibiotics or ear drops as needed. Cost is typically $100-$150.

Ear Infection Treatment at Urgent Care

Ear infections are one of the most common conditions treated at urgent care, especially in children.

Types of Ear Infections Treated

  • Otitis media: Middle ear infection (most common in children)
  • Otitis externa: Swimmer's ear (outer ear infection)
  • Ear canal infections

What to Expect

  1. Provider examines ear with otoscope
  2. Determines type and severity of infection
  3. Prescribes treatment (antibiotics, ear drops, pain relief)
  4. Follow-up instructions provided

Treatment Options

  • Oral antibiotics: For bacterial middle ear infections
  • Antibiotic ear drops: For swimmer's ear
  • Pain relievers: OTC or prescription
  • Watch and wait: Some mild infections resolve on their own

Cost

ServiceWithout InsuranceWith Insurance
Visit + exam$100-$150$25-$50 copay
Antibiotics$4-$30$0-$15
Ear drops$10-$50$5-$20

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