Ear, Nose, and Throat Infections in Lawrence, KS

Ear, nose, and throat infections are commonly seen in adults and children alike. When you have a minor ENT condition, you may need immediate care, which is why Lawrence Family Practice Center provides urgent care services for patients with a variety of acute issues, including sinus infections (sinusitis), ear infections, colds, flu, strep throat, and upper respiratory infections. ENT infections can produce uncomfortable symptoms, such as:

• Sinus pain
• Nasal congestion
• Cough
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Chest congestion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Ear pain

If you need urgent ENT care for yourself or your child, reach out to our caring team to schedule a visit in Lawrence, KS.

One of our physicians will assess your ears, nose, and throat and learn about your symptoms and health history. If needed, we can provide on-site lab testing, including blood work, x-rays, or strep tests. The appropriate course of treatment will be recommended based on your issue. Most viral infections will clear up on their own within about a week or so. To help your body heal faster, we recommend getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated. Over-the-counter medications, such as cough medicine and pain relievers (like ibuprofen or Tylenol) can help alleviate your symptoms while nasal saline rinses can help flush out the nasal cavity. For bacterial infections, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed.

Can a sore throat indicate a throat infection?

Yes, a sore throat can be a sign of a throat infection, such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis. These infections can be caused by bacteria like streptococcus or viruses, such as the common cold. Persistent sore throat or accompanying symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, fever, or swollen lymph nodes, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Are ear infections contagious?

While the infection itself is not contagious, the viruses or bacteria that cause ear infections can be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets. This means that the underlying cold, flu, or respiratory infection can be contagious. Practicing good hygiene can help reduce the spread of these infections.

What complications can arise from untreated ENT infections?

Untreated ear, nose, or throat infections can lead to complications such as hearing loss, sinusitis, spread of infection to nearby structures, or more severe conditions like abscesses. Chronic untreated infections may also lead to long-term issues, such as breathing difficulties or speech problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent these complications.

Although ENT infections are not usually an emergency, you still probably want to alleviate your discomforts as soon as possible. Contact Lawrence Family Practice Center in Lawrence, KS to book an urgent care appointment with one of our family medicine specialists. We have on-site lab services that allow us to provide a quick diagnosis and appropriate treatments to get you back to feeling better.