“Should you go to the ER for a painful earache?”
My 12 year old son was swimming underwater at an indoor pool. He got a lot of water in his ear. Should you go to the ER for a painful earache?
3 Answers
EmergencyPhysicianEmergencyPhysician
An urgent care clinic, his doctor's office are probably more appropriate. Absent those options, an ER is your only choice.
Sure. Or a pediatrician
Needs to he checked for possible antibiotic drops. He could have "swimmers ear" which is an infection in the external ear canal. If you have access to a local clinic that is open or a urgent care, they can check this there instead of the ER department. If you also have access to the pediatrician or his physician, then can check how soon he can be seen. If in a lot of pain, ear drainage and fever, need to be checked right away.
