On this page
Short answer Middle ear or swimmer's ear? What helps right away Antibiotics Flights, concerts and class When should I get checked by a doctor? Common questions from students Common questions Related questions SourcesYes: an ear infection itself is not contagious, so you can usually go to class, but get it checked if the pain lasts more than a day or two or you have a fever or drainage.
The cold or virus behind it can spread. Ear infections in adults are less common than in kids, so ear pain is worth a visit, especially after a flight, swimming or a cold.
Middle ear or swimmer's ear?
- Middle ear infection: deep ear pain, muffled hearing, often after a cold
- Swimmer's ear: ear canal pain that hurts when you tug the ear, often after swimming or a shower with trapped water
A clinician looks in the ear to tell them apart, because treatment differs.
What helps right away
- Over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
- A warm compress over the ear
- Keep the ear dry while it heals
- Do not put cotton swabs, fingers or home remedies in the ear
Antibiotics
Some ear infections clear without antibiotics. A clinician decides based on your age, how bad you feel, and how long it lasts. Swimmer's ear usually needs ear drops. See how long an ear infection lasts.
Flights, concerts and class
- Flying with a bad ear infection can hurt, so ask a clinician first
- Loud concerts and earbuds are best skipped while it heals
- Ask for a seat near the front if hearing is muffled in class
When should I get checked by a doctor?
- Pain longer than 1 to 2 days
- Fever of 102 F or higher
- Drainage of pus or blood
- Hearing loss, ringing, or dizziness
- Pain with swelling or redness behind the ear
Go to the ER for severe pain with a stiff neck, confusion or facial weakness.
If you are not sure what you have, our AI doctor asks a few questions and sends you a care note you can bring to student health.
Common questions from students
Is an ear infection contagious? No, but the cold virus behind it can be. See is an ear infection contagious.
Can I swim with an ear infection? Better to avoid it until a clinician says it is okay.
Can I fly with an ear infection? Often possible but painful. Check with a clinician.
How long does it last? Often a few days, longer if untreated.
Can earbuds cause an ear infection? They can trap moisture. Clean them and give your ears a break.
Common questions
Can I go to class with an ear infection?
Yes: an ear infection itself is not contagious, so you can usually go to class, but get it checked if the pain lasts more than a day or two or you have a fever or drainage. The cold or virus behind it can spread. Ear infections in adults are less common than in kids, so ear pain is worth a visit, especially after a flight, swimming or a cold.
Is an ear infection contagious?
No, but the cold virus behind it can be. See is an ear infection contagious.
Can I swim with an ear infection?
Better to avoid it until a clinician says it is okay.
Can I fly with an ear infection?
Often possible but painful. Check with a clinician.
How long does it last?
Often a few days, longer if untreated.
Can earbuds cause an ear infection?
They can trap moisture. Clean them and give your ears a break.