Do You Have an Ear Infection? Find Fast Relief Just Minutes Away From Terra Linda, CA
Ear pain can stop your day in its tracks, especially when the discomfort keeps getting worse instead of better. For residents of Terra Linda, California, getting fast, effective ear infection treatment is simple—Medical Center of Marin’s Novato clinic, conveniently located just a short drive from the neighborhood, offers quick access to compassionate, same-day care. Whether you’re helping a child with sudden ear pain or dealing with symptoms yourself, our team is here to make sure you get the relief you need without delay.
What’s Actually Going on in There?
Most ear infections, especially in children, happen when the Eustachian tubes (which drain fluid from the middle ear) get blocked due to colds, allergies, or sinus congestion. That trapped fluid becomes a breeding ground for bacteria or viruses, causing inflammation, pain, and sometimes fever.
While some mild infections may clear on their own, ignoring symptoms can lead to complications like hearing loss, balance problems, or recurring infections. That’s why it’s important to get checked out—especially if the pain is persistent or accompanied by a fever.
Symptoms That Could Mean an Ear Infection
Not sure whether it’s an ear infection or just a little congestion? Here are some signs that it may be time to see a provider:
- Throbbing or stabbing pain in the ear
- A feeling of fullness or pressure that won’t go away
- Muffled hearing or temporary hearing loss
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Dizziness, nausea, or balance issues
- Fever or chills
In children, ear infections might also show up as tugging at the ear, irritability, poor sleep, or a decreased appetite. If any of these sound familiar, it’s a good idea to head to our Novato clinic for a quick checkup.
How We Diagnose and Treat Ear Infections
When you visit Medical Center of Marin, our team will gently examine the ear using an otoscope to look for signs of infection and fluid buildup. In some cases, we may perform simple tests to check hearing or how the eardrum is responding to pressure changes. Depending on what we find, treatment may include:
- Antibiotics if the infection is bacterial
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Prescription ear drops to ease discomfort
- Decongestants or antihistamines if allergies are contributing
- Warm compresses to help relieve pressure
If ear infections become a recurring issue—especially in kids—we may recommend follow-up care to monitor for chronic conditions.
When to Get Help Right Away
While many ear infections are manageable at home with care and rest, certain symptoms should never be ignored. Visit our Novato clinic promptly if you or your child experience:
- Sudden or severe ear pain
- High fever (especially over 102°F)
- Pus or blood draining from the ear
- Persistent hearing loss or ringing
- Symptoms that last more than 48 hours without improvement
Local, Reliable Care Just Minutes from Terra Linda
Living in Terra Linda means you’re just a quick trip away from expert care at Medical Center of Marin in Novato. Our providers understand how disruptive ear infections can be—and we’re here to help you feel better quickly with same-day appointments and walk-in availability.
We also make accessing care easy by accepting a wide variety of insurance plans, including major PPOs and HMOs like Anthem Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, and more. If you’re unsure about coverage, our friendly front desk team can walk you through your options.
Get Back to Feeling Like Yourself
Ear infections don’t have to linger. If you or your child is dealing with pain, pressure, or hearing issues, visit Medical Center of Marin in Novato for fast, compassionate care. Book online or walk in today—we’re here to help you get back on track.