Penn Medicine Becker ENT
Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy

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Urgent Care for Ear Infection
in New Jersey and Philadelphia

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons patients of all ages visit an ENT clinic. From sharp, sudden ear pain that keeps you awake at night to recurrent infections in children, these conditions can cause intense discomfort and affect your ability to hear, sleep, or focus. When symptoms escalate, waiting for a primary care appointment or heading to a general urgent care clinic may not provide the specialized attention you need.

At Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy, we offer fast, same-day urgent care appointments for New Jersey and Philadelphia patients. Our board-certified ENT providers evaluate and treat ear infections in both children and adults, providing relief while protecting long-term hearing health. Telehealth consultations may be available when appropriate; however, in most cases a provider must perform a focused in-person ear exam in order to provide appropriate treatment recommendations.

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⚠️ Important Medical Notice

The information provided below and throughout this website is presented for general educational purposes only and does NOT constitute professional medical advice. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice and NO material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Ear Infection Diagnosis and Treatment at Urgent Care

An ear infection occurs when bacteria, viruses, or fungi cause inflammation in the ear canal, middle ear, or inner ear. These infections can develop after a cold, respiratory infection, trauma, or even swimming.

Our urgent care service is designed for patients who need expert evaluation and treatment for ear infection symptoms without the long wait times of an ER. By focusing on ear, nose, and throat conditions, we ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your affected ear.

In some cases, an emergency room is more appropriate—for example, if a newborn under three months has a fever, or if severe neurological symptoms occur. For most common ear infections and ear symptomatology, however, an urgent care visit at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy provides timely, specialized care.

Types of Ear Infections We Treat

Ear infections can take different forms depending on which part of the ear is affected:

Otitis media (middle ear infection)

Inflammation behind the eardrum, common in children after colds or respiratory infections.

Otitis externa (outer ear or swimmer’s ear)

Infection in the ear canal, often after swimming or moisture exposure.

Inner ear infection or inflammation (labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis)

Less common but associated with dizziness or balance issues.

Chronic ear infections

Repeated or persistent infections that may lead to long-term problems.

Eustachian tube dysfunction

Blockage causing pressure, fluid buildup, and ear fullness, discomfort, and pain.

Barotrauma

Ear pain linked to air travel or diving.

Cerumen impaction with infection

When earwax blocks the canal and creates conditions for infection.

Perforated eardrum

A ruptured eardrum that requires careful monitoring and treatment.

Man touching red-inflamed ear indicating pain, illustrating symptoms of a middle ear infection needing treatment
Child receiving ear examination with otoscope at urgent care clinic, highlighting treatment options for young patients
Urgent care clinics evaluate and treat ear issues in children, adults, seniors, and immunocompromised patients.

Who We Treat

Our urgent care team provides evaluation and treatment for:

Children over the age of 5  – Not all offices are equipped to see pediatric patients, so please check with our call center. We do; however, try our best to accommodate patients as we can. 
Adolescents and adults with ear pain, ear fullness, ear discomfort, hearing loss.
Seniors with hearing changes or recurrent infections.
Immunocompromised patients who need closer monitoring.
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Benefits of Choosing Urgent Care for Ear Infections

Patients choose Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy urgent care for ear pain and related conditions because we offer:

1

Same-day evaluation without long ER waits

2

Cost-effective visits compared to emergency care

3

Evidence-based prescribing (antibiotics only when truly needed)

4

Pain and discomfort relief, including guidance on over-the-counter pain relievers

5

Pediatric-friendly care with child-sized instruments and comfort techniques

6

Continuity of care with ENT follow-up for chronic or recurrent cases

Common Symptoms of Ear Infections

Recognizing the signs of an ear infection helps you decide when it’s time for urgent care. Common symptoms include:

Ear pain or pressure (sometimes severe ear pain)
Reduced hearing in the affected ear
Drainage from the ear canal
Itching or swelling in the outer ear
Irritability, poor sleep, or tugging at the ear in infants
Pain after a recent cold or upper respiratory infection
Dizziness or balance issues
Other symptoms such as sore throat or sinus pressure accompanying the earache
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Close-up of doctor using pen to explain ear infection symptoms on anatomical ear model during medical consultation

When these ear infection symptoms interfere with daily life, it’s best to schedule a same-day urgent care visit.

Close-up of healthcare professional examining woman’s ear with gloved hands, assessing for emergency infection symptoms
Certain ear infection symptoms like facial drooping or severe dizziness require immediate emergency medical care.

When to Seek Immediate Emergency Care

Urgent care is appropriate for most ear infections, but some serious infections require an ER visit. Go to the nearest emergency department if you or your child experiences:

Severe headache, stiff neck, or neurological symptoms
Very high fever that does not improve with treatment
Facial weakness or drooping
Intense dizziness or balance problems
Penetrating trauma to the ear
Signs of mastoiditis (swelling, redness, tenderness behind the ear)
Fever in a newborn under 3 months
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Smiling patient speaking with doctor wearing gloves, emphasizing importance of timely ear infection treatment to avoid risks

Risks of Not Getting Prompt Treatment

Delaying care for an ear infection may lead to:

Worsening or severe ear pain
Spread of infection to nearby tissues
Temporary hearing loss or, rarely, permanent damage
A ruptured eardrum from fluid pressure
Chronic ear infections that recur frequently
Missing alternative diagnoses such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or shingles

Prompt evaluation reduces these risks and helps restore comfort quickly.

Patient Testimonials and Reviews

Read more reviews or leave your own to help others find expert ENT care.

Living with severe allergies was an ongoing battle, impacting my daily activities. Seeking relief, I turned to Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Philadelphia, and it was the best decision I made. Their team of allergists conducted comprehensive testing, identified my triggers, and developed a personalized treatment plan. Through a combination of medication, allergen avoidance strategies, and immunotherapy, my allergies are now under control. The attentive care, professionalism, and expertise displayed by Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy have significantly improved my quality of life. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking effective allergy management in Swarthmore.

  • Star full Star full Star full Star full Star full 5 stars
  • Zachary Morgan, Swarthmore

Recurrent ear infections had been plaguing me for months, causing excruciating pain and affecting my daily life. Frustrated and desperate for a solution, I turned to Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Yardley. From the moment I walked into their clinic, I felt welcomed and cared for. The ENT specialists took the time to thoroughly examine my ears and explained the underlying causes of my chronic infections. With their expertise, they devised an effective treatment plan that addressed the root cause. I am grateful for their professionalism and dedication in resolving my ear infections. Highly recommended for anyone in Washington Crossing seeking relief!

  • Star full Star full Star full Star full Star full 5 stars
  • David Wilson, Washington Crossing

My daughter had been struggling with persistent ear infections for months, causing her a great deal of pain and discomfort. We visited Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Philadelphia, and their team of ENT specialists delivered outstanding care. They thoroughly examined her ears, diagnosed the problem, and recommended a treatment plan that included antibiotics and preventive measures. The doctors were compassionate, patient, and knowledgeable, making my daughter feel at ease throughout the process. Thanks to their expertise, her ear infections have significantly reduced, and we are incredibly grateful for the excellent ENT care they provided, I totally suggest all the people living in Elkins Park to contact Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Philadelphia.

  • Star full Star full Star full Star full Star full 5 stars
  • Olivia Bennett, Elkins Park

When my child developed a persistent ear infection, I knew I had to find the best care possible. After researching several options near Marlboro, I chose Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Monroe. Their skilled team accurately diagnosed my child’s condition as a middle ear infection and provided timely and effective treatment. The ENT specialists at Monroe location were exceptional with my child, making them feel comfortable and at ease throughout the process. Thanks to Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy, my child’s ear infection cleared up, and they are back to their energetic self again!

  • Star full Star full Star full Star full Star full 5 stars
  • Daniel Baker, Marlboro

Dealing with recurring ear infections had been a constant source of pain and discomfort for me. Desperate for relief, I decided to seek help at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Freehold, conveniently close to Tinton Falls. The ENT specialists at their facility conducted a thorough examination and diagnosed me with chronic otitis media. With their expertise and compassion, they developed a personalized treatment plan involving medication and preventive measures. Throughout the entire process, their team provided exceptional care. Thanks to their effective treatment, my ear infections have significantly reduced, allowing me to enjoy a pain-free life. I highly recommend their outstanding ENT services to anyone in Tinton Falls dealing with ear infections.

  • Star full Star full Star full Star full Star full 5 stars
  • Ava Johnson, Tinton Falls

What to Expect During Your Urgent Care Visit

Knowing what happens during an urgent care visit helps reduce anxiety:

Check-in and intake

We take your basic vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation level), review your symptoms, recent illnesses, travel/swimming history, prior ear infections, and allergies.

Examination

An ENT provider performs an otoscopic exam of the ear canal and eardrum, checking both ears and the throat. In some cases, a binocular surgical microscope is used to allow for superior visualization. For children, a gentle, pediatric-friendly approach is used.

Diagnostics (if needed)

Tests such as tympanometry to assess middle ear pressure, hearing screenings, or swabs for severe discharge may be performed.

Treatment plan

Depending on findings, treatment may include antibiotics (oral or ear drops), safe ear cleaning, decongestants, or over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For swollen canals, an ear wick may be placed.

Discharge and follow-up

You’ll receive written instructions, home care tips, and guidance on when to return for follow-up and continuity of care. Work or school notes are provided if needed.

Specialized Services for Ear Infection Care

On-site ear cleaning – Safe removal of earwax when blockage worsens pain or prevents a clear exam.
Tympanometry and hearing screening – Objective tests to detect fluid or pressure in the middle ear.
Pediatric-friendly environment – Instruments sized for children, caregiver education, and weight-based dosing guidance.

Long-Term Management and Prevention

For patients with many ear infections or chronic issues, our team provides strategies to reduce recurrence:

Avoiding smoke exposure and managing allergies
Preventive care for swimmers (drying drops, ear protection)
Guidance for air travel to reduce barotrauma
Discussion of ear tubes for children with repeated middle ear infections
Vaccination reminders to reduce respiratory infections that trigger ear disease
Smiling ENT doctor and young patient giving thumbs up, representing trusted ear infection care at Becker ENT clinics

Why Choose a Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy Doctor for Ear Infection Care

Board-certified ENT doctors with expertise in diagnosing and treating ear infection symptoms
Evidence-based treatment to avoid unnecessary antibiotics while managing pain and discomfort
Convenient urgent care locations serving New Jersey and Philadelphia
Family-focused approach for children and adults alike
Clean, modern facilities with safe, patient-centered care

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you or your child is experiencing ear pain, fever, or hearing changes, you don’t need to wait for help. Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy offers same-day urgent care appointments for New Jersey and Philadelphia patients. Walk-ins are welcome, and telehealth may be available when appropriate. Call today, schedule online, or visit your nearest Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy office to start treatment for ear pain and infections now.

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Locations & Access for Urgent Care

Primary Urgent Care Clinic (Philadelphia)

Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy – South Street Urgent Care

This office is convenient to neighborhoods like Rittenhouse Square, Graduate Hospital, Bella Vista, Center City, and University City. Accessible by SEPTA bus and subway with nearby parking options.

Other Penn Medicine Becker ENT &Allergy Offices

Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy also has offices throughout New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. Whether you’re coming from Cherry Hill, Princeton, Edison, or South Philadelphia, there’s a Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy office nearby for follow-up ENT care.

We have New Jersey office locations in Freehold, Monroe, Plainsboro, Robbinsville, Lawrenceville, Hillsborough, Princeton, Mullica Hill, Mount Laurel, Voorhees, and Sewell. Nearby cities include:

Freehold Township

Freehold
West Freehold
Millhurst
Smithburg
Sweetman
Manalapan Township
Englishtown
Montrose
Colts Neck
Siloam
Howell Township
Farmingdale
Tinton Falls
Holmdel
Spring Valley

Hillsborough

Manville 
Montgomery 
Belle Mead 
Rocky Hill 
Skillman 
Millstone 
Neshanic 
Somerville 
Raritan 
Bound Brook 
South Bound Brook 
Bridgewater township 
Branchburg 
Readington township 
Spring Valley 
Martinsville 
Franklin Township 
Middlesex 

Lawrenceville

Mercer County 
Mercerville 
East Windsor 
West Windsor 
Plainsboro 
Cranbury 
Mount Rose 
Pennington 
Rocky Hill 
Skillman 
Ewing 
East Amwell Township 
West Amwell Township 

Monroe Township 

Jamesburg 
Helmetta 
Spotswood 
South Brunswick Township 
East Brunswick 
Old Bridge 
South River 
Sayreville, Morganville 
Marlboro 
Milltown 
North Brunswick 
East New Brunswick 
Roosevelt 
Spring Valley 
Mt Pleasant 
Matawan 

Mt. Laurel

Moorestown 
Cinnaminson 
Delran 
Palmyra 
Hainesport 
Mt Holly 
Lumberton 
Fostertown 
Medford 
Westampton 
Eastampton township 
Willingboro

Mullica Hill

Pitman 
Glassboro 
Turnersville 
Gloucester Township 
Deptford 
West Deptford 
Woodbury Heights 
Runnemede 
Mantua Township 
Paulsboro 
Greenwich Township 
East Greenwich Township 
Swedesboro 
Repaupo 
Logan Township 
Auburn 

Plainsboro

Princeton
North Brunswick
Ewing
Trenton
East Brunswick
New Brunswick

Princeton (Bunn Drive)

Kingston
Rocky Hill
West Windsor
Rosedale
Montgomery

Princeton (Ewing Street)

Kingston

Robbinsville

Hamilton
Allentown
Polhemustown
Cream Ridge
Chesterfield Township
Bordentown
Groveville
Yardville
North Hanover
Georgetown
Florence

Sewell

Washington Township
Wenonah
Winslow Township
Hammonton

Voorhees (East Evesham Rd)

Evesham
Berlin Township
Berlin Heights
Waterford
Tansboro
Pine Hill
Clementon
Gibbsboro
Glendale
Lindenwald
Stratford
Somerdale
Marlton
Haddonfield
Cherry Hill
Collingswood

Voorhees (Haddonfield-Berlin Rd)

Lindenwold
Marlton
Haddonfield
Pine Hill
Cherry Hill
Audubon
Bellmawr
Maple Shade
Collingswood
Gloucester City
Berlin
West Berlin
Somerdale
Stratford
Clementon

Voorhees (Sheppard Rd)

Evesham
Berlin Township
Berlin Heights
Waterford
Tansboro
Pine Hill
Clementon
Gibbsboro
Glendale
Lindenwold
Stratford
Somerdale
Marlton
Haddonfield
Cherry Hill
Collingswood

Woodbury

Deptford
West Deptford
Mantua
Wenonah
Thorofare
Paulsboro
National Park
Runnemede
Bellmawr
Gloucester City

We have Pennsylvania office locations in Philadelphia and Yardley. Nearby cities include:

Philadelphia (South St)

South Philadelphia
Kensington
North Philadelphia
Elkins Park
Jenkintown
Glenside
Plymouth Meeting
Conshohocken
Bala Cynwyd
Ardmore
Bryn Mawr
Havertown
Springfield
Media

Philadelphia (Walnut St)

Kensington
North Philadelphia
Elkins Park
Jenkintown
Glenside
Plymouth Meeting
Conshohocken
Bala Cynwyd
Ardmore
Bryn Mawr
Havertown
Springfield
Media
Swarthmore
Glenolden
Folcroft

Yardley 

Newtown
Wrightstown
Rushland
Pineville
Forest Grove
Hartsville
Woodside
Upper Makefield Township
Washington Crossing
Doylestown
Langhorne
Fairless Hills
Fallsington
Levittown
Penndel
Hulmeville
Bensalem

Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Infection Urgent Care

Do I need antibiotics for every ear infection?

Not always. Many ear infections, especially in the middle ear, improve without antibiotics. Your provider decides based on the severity, duration, and whether the infection is likely viral or bacterial.

Can you treat children?

Yes. Our providers follow pediatric protocols, with weight-based dosing for medications. We do not see children under 5 years old.

How soon can I swim or fly after an ear infection?

This depends on the type of infection. Outer ear infections require full canal healing before swimming. Air travel may need to be delayed until congestion and fluid resolve to prevent barotrauma.

What should I do for pain before I arrive?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain and fever. Warm compresses may also provide comfort. Avoid inserting objects into the ear.

Do you accept insurance and what will it cost?

Becker ENT & Allergy accepts most major insurance plans and provides transparent self-pay rates. Bring your insurance card and ID at the time of your urgent care visit.

What if symptoms don’t improve?

Most ear infections start to improve within 24–48 hours of treatment. If symptoms persist, worsen, or new symptoms develop, a follow-up visit or ENT referral may be recommended.

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Background locations

Call now to schedule your appointment.

Appointments are available. Mon - Fri : 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

COVID-19 Safety Updates

Freehold, NJ

732-375-9550

Hillsborough, NJ

908-271-2102

Lawrenceville, NJ

609-303-5163

Monroe, NJ

609-831-0779

Mt. Laurel, NJ

856-724-4031

Mullica Hill, NJ

856-478-3111

Philadelphia, PA (South St)

215-671-6330

Philadelphia, PA (Walnut St)

215-929-8301

Plainsboro, NJ

609-897-0203

Princeton, NJ

609-430-9200

Princeton, NJ

609-759-8500

Robbinsville, NJ

609-436-5740

Sewell, NJ

856-589-6673

Voorhees, NJ

856-565-2900

Voorhees, NJ (Haddonfield-Berlind Rd)

856-375-1440

Voorhees, NJ

856-772-1617

Woodbury, NJ

856-845-8300

Yardley, PA

267-399-4004

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Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy

Call one of our locations now!

  • Freehold, NJ: (732) 375-9550
  • Hillsborough, NJ: (908) 271-2102
  • Lawrenceville, NJ: (609) 303-5163
  • Monroe, NJ: (609) 831-0779
  • Mt. Laurel, NJ: (856) 724-4031
  • Mullica Hill, NJ: (856) 478-3111
  • Philadelphia, PA: (215) 671-6330
  • Philadelphia, PA: (215) 929-8301
  • Plainsboro, NJ: (609) 681-6939
  • Princeton, NJ: (609) 759-8500
  • Princeton, NJ: (609) 430-9200
  • Robbinsville, NJ: (609) 436-5740
  • Sewell, NJ: (856) 589-6673
  • Voorhees, NJ: (856) 772-1617
  • Voorhees, NJ: (856) 565-2900
  • Yardley, PA: (267) 399-4004
  • Woodbury, NJ: (856) 845-8300