What causes ear pain? Discover the 7 most common reasons for ear discomfort, including earwax buildup, air pressure changes, swimmer’s ear, middle ear infection, and more.

Earwax Buildup: A Common Cause of Ear Pain

Your ear naturally produces wax to protect and clean the ear canal. However, when this process doesn’t work properly, the wax can build up and harden, leading to a blocked ear canal and pain. Attempts to remove the wax with cotton swabs or other objects can often push the wax deeper, making the problem worse. Instead, over-the-counter ear drops that soften the wax can help it drain naturally. If the wax has hardened, a doctor can safely remove it without damaging the eardrum.

Air Pressure Changes: Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Our ears have a delicate balance of air pressure on both sides of the eardrum. Normally, the eustachian tubes equalize this pressure when we swallow or yawn. But sudden changes in air pressure, like when taking off or landing in an airplane, can disrupt this balance and cause ear pain and difficulty hearing. To avoid this, try chewing gum, sucking on hard candy, or gently blowing your nose during the pressure changes. Avoiding air travel when you have a cold or sinus issues can also help.

Swimmer’s Ear: An Outer Ear Infection

Also known as acute otitis externa, swimmer’s ear occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal and allows bacteria to grow. This can cause redness, swelling, itching, and discharge from the ear. To prevent swimmer’s ear, keep your ears dry after swimming or bathing. If you do develop swimmer’s ear, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotic ear drops to clear up the infection.

Middle Ear Infection: Otitis Media

A cold, allergies, or sinus infection can block the middle ear’s eustachian tubes, causing fluid buildup and infection. This is the most common cause of ear pain, especially in children. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection is bacterial. Decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal steroids can also help treat the underlying condition. Untreated middle ear infections can spread or lead to hearing loss.

Referred Ear Pain From Other Sources

Ear pain doesn’t always originate in the ear itself. It can be “referred” pain from other areas, like a toothache, sore throat, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Tapping on the teeth or jaw can help determine if the pain is coming from those sources. Treating the underlying condition, such as a tooth abscess or TMJ, can alleviate the referred ear pain.

When to See a Doctor for Ear Pain

Severe, persistent ear pain that doesn’t improve with home treatment, or that comes with a high fever, sore throat, or new rash, may indicate a more serious underlying condition. In these cases, it’s important to see a doctor right away for proper diagnosis and treatment to rule out potentially serious issues like tumors or severe infections.

Key Takeaways

Ear pain can have various causes, from earwax buildup and air pressure changes to infections and referred pain from other areas. Knowing the common causes can help you determine when to seek medical attention versus trying home remedies. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to see a doctor.

What are the most common causes of ear pain?. The most common causes of ear pain include earwax buildup, changes in air pressure, swimmer’s ear, middle ear infection, and referred pain from other sources like toothaches or TMJ issues.

Can ear pain be caused by something other than an ear infection?. Yes, ear pain can have various causes beyond just ear infections. Other common causes include earwax buildup, changes in air pressure, swimmer’s ear, and referred pain from issues in the teeth, jaw, or throat.

How can I treat ear pain at home?. For mild ear pain, you can try over-the-counter earwax softening drops, chewing gum or sucking on hard candy during pressure changes, and keeping the ears dry to prevent swimmer’s ear. But persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a doctor.

When should I see a doctor for ear pain?. You should see a doctor if the ear pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by a high fever, sore throat, or new rash, as these could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical treatment.

Why Does My Ear Hurt? 7 Possible Causes of Ear Pain

Written by Stacey Jones, MS, BA

• Earwax
• Air Pressure
• Swimmer’s Ear
• Middle Ear Infection
• Other Causes

Parents know how common earaches are in children, but adults can get frequent ear pain, too. You don’t have to have an infection, or even anything wrong with your ears, to have ear pain.

These are the most common causes:

Your ear makes and gets rid of wax all the time. When the process doesn’t work well, the gunk builds up and hardens so your ear canal gets blocked. Your doctor will call this impacted wax. Sometimes, it causes pain.

Don’t use cotton swabs or other objects to try to get wax out. You’ll just push it farther into your ear canal and make it more likely to get impacted. Your ear might hurt, itch, discharge gunk, or get infected. You could even lose your hearing for a while.

You can treat mildly impacted ears at home with over-the-counter ear drops that soften the wax so it can naturally drain. Or go see your doctor if the wax has hardened. She can get the wax out without damaging the eardrum. Learn more about earwax.

Most of the time, your ear does a great job of keeping pressure equal on both sides of your eardrum. That little pop you feel when you swallow is part of the process. But quick changes, like when you’re on an airplane or in an elevator, can throw off the balance. Your ear might hurt, and you could have trouble hearing. This is typically a eustachian tube dysfunction which can be a chronic in some people.

To avoid problems on a plane:

• Chew gum, suck on hard candy, or yawn and swallow during takeoff and landing.
• Stay awake while the plane descends.
• Take a deep breath, pinch your nostrils shut, then gently try to blow air out of your nose.
• Avoid air travel and diving when you have a cold, a sinus infection, or allergy symptoms.

Learn more about air pressure and your ears.

If your ear hurts when you pull on your earlobe or push on the tiny flap that closes it, you probably have this outer ear infection. You get it when water trapped in your ear canal begins to breed germs. Your ear might get red, swollen, or itch and leak pus. It isn’t contagious. To avoid it, keep your ears dry during and after swimming. Your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotic ear drops to clear it up. Learn more about swimmer’s ear.

A cold, allergies, or a sinus infection can block the tubes in your middle ear. When fluid builds up and gets infected, your doctor will call it otitis media. This is the most common cause of ear pain. If your doctor thinks the cause is a bacteria, she may prescribe antibiotics. If not, then she may recommend a decongestant allergy treatment with an antihistamine and a nasal steroid. Let her know if your pain doesn’t improve or returns. If it isn’t treated, a middle ear infection can spread or cause hearing loss. Learn more about ear infection treatments.

You may feel pain in your ears even when the source is somewhere else in your body, like a toothache. That’s because the nerves in your face and neck pass very close to your inner ear. Doctors call this type of pain that starts in one area but is felt in another “referred pain.”

If your earache comes with a severe sore throat, it could be an infection like tonsillitis or pharyngitis. In fact, ear pain is often the worst symptom of one of these conditions. Learn more about sore throat symptoms.

Tooth abscesses, cavities, and impacted molars also can cause ear pain. Your doctor will be able to tell if your teeth are to blame by tapping on a tooth or your gums to see if they feel sore. Learn more about toothaches.

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the “hinge” of your jaw that sits directly below your ears. You might get TMJ pain from grinding your teeth, or it could be a symptom of arthritis. The ache in your ears or face comes after you chew, talk, or yawn. To treat it, take over-the-counter pain medicine and put warm compresses on your jaw. Try not to clench your teeth. You may benefit from using a mouth guard when you sleep. This can help ease the tension that causes ear pain. Eating soft foods will help, too. Learn more about causes of jaw pain.

Some causes of ear pain can be serious such as tumors or infections, including cellulitis or shingles. If your ear pain is severe, doesn’t go away within a few days of home treatment, or comes with a high fever or sore throat, or you get a new rash, visit your doctor right away for treatment and to rule out something more serious.

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Why Does My Ear Hurt? 7 Possible Causes of Ear Pain

Written by Stacey Jones, MS, BA

• Earwax
• Air Pressure
• Swimmer’s Ear
• Middle Ear Infection
• Other Causes

Parents know how common earaches are in children, but adults can get frequent ear pain, too. You don’t have to have an infection, or even anything wrong with your ears, to have ear pain.

These are the most common causes:

Your ear makes and gets rid of wax all the time. When the process doesn’t work well, the gunk builds up and hardens so your ear canal gets blocked. Your doctor will call this impacted wax. Sometimes, it causes pain.

Don’t use cotton swabs or other objects to try to get wax out. You’ll just push it farther into your ear canal and make it more likely to get impacted. Your ear might hurt, itch, discharge gunk, or get infected. You could even lose your hearing for a while.

You can treat mildly impacted ears at home with over-the-counter ear drops that soften the wax so it can naturally drain. Or go see your doctor if the wax has hardened. She can get the wax out without damaging the eardrum. Learn more about earwax.

Most of the time, your ear does a great job of keeping pressure equal on both sides of your eardrum. That little pop you feel when you swallow is part of the process. But quick changes, like when you’re on an airplane or in an elevator, can throw off the balance. Your ear might hurt, and you could have trouble hearing. This is typically a eustachian tube dysfunction which can be a chronic in some people.

To avoid problems on a plane:

• Chew gum, suck on hard candy, or yawn and swallow during takeoff and landing.
• Stay awake while the plane descends.
• Take a deep breath, pinch your nostrils shut, then gently try to blow air out of your nose.
• Avoid air travel and diving when you have a cold, a sinus infection, or allergy symptoms.

Learn more about air pressure and your ears.

If your ear hurts when you pull on your earlobe or push on the tiny flap that closes it, you probably have this outer ear infection. You get it when water trapped in your ear canal begins to breed germs. Your ear might get red, swollen, or itch and leak pus. It isn’t contagious. To avoid it, keep your ears dry during and after swimming. Your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotic ear drops to clear it up. Learn more about swimmer’s ear.

A cold, allergies, or a sinus infection can block the tubes in your middle ear. When fluid builds up and gets infected, your doctor will call it otitis media. This is the most common cause of ear pain. If your doctor thinks the cause is a bacteria, she may prescribe antibiotics. If not, then she may recommend a decongestant allergy treatment with an antihistamine and a nasal steroid. Let her know if your pain doesn’t improve or returns. If it isn’t treated, a middle ear infection can spread or cause hearing loss. Learn more about ear infection treatments.

You may feel pain in your ears even when the source is somewhere else in your body, like a toothache. That’s because the nerves in your face and neck pass very close to your inner ear. Doctors call this type of pain that starts in one area but is felt in another “referred pain.”

If your earache comes with a severe sore throat, it could be an infection like tonsillitis or pharyngitis. In fact, ear pain is often the worst symptom of one of these conditions. Learn more about sore throat symptoms.

Tooth abscesses, cavities, and impacted molars also can cause ear pain. Your doctor will be able to tell if your teeth are to blame by tapping on a tooth or your gums to see if they feel sore. Learn more about toothaches.

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the “hinge” of your jaw that sits directly below your ears. You might get TMJ pain from grinding your teeth, or it could be a symptom of arthritis. The ache in your ears or face comes after you chew, talk, or yawn. To treat it, take over-the-counter pain medicine and put warm compresses on your jaw. Try not to clench your teeth. You may benefit from using a mouth guard when you sleep. This can help ease the tension that causes ear pain. Eating soft foods will help, too. Learn more about causes of jaw pain.

Some causes of ear pain can be serious such as tumors or infections, including cellulitis or shingles. If your ear pain is severe, doesn’t go away within a few days of home treatment, or comes with a high fever or sore throat, or you get a new rash, visit your doctor right away for treatment and to rule out something more serious.

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Pain and discomfort near the ear: causes and treatment

Pain near the ear – causes and methods of treatment. Find out what diseases can cause pain near the ear and how to properly seek help from specialists.

The ear is an organ that plays an important role in receiving sounds. Sometimes situations arise when it becomes painful near the ear. The causes can be various diseases. The correct treatment depends on the specific situation.

Pain near the ear can occur for many reasons: infections, injuries, allergies and other factors. Discomfort can occur inside and outside the ear. Usually, the symptoms are accompanied by itching, redness, swelling and swelling.

In this article, we will look at the most common causes of pain and discomfort near the ear, as well as methods and methods of treatment. However, do not forget that it is best to consult a doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of ear diseases.

Definition of ear pain

Ear pain can be defined as discomfort, discomfort, cutting, burning, throbbing, dull or sharp pain around the ear or inside the pinna.

This can be caused by a variety of things, such as ear inflammation, infections, trauma, atmospheric pressure, dental problems, headaches, or neck problems. Ear pain may be associated with other symptoms such as hearing loss, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

Treatment may include drugs such as analgesics, antibiotics, or ear drops. Procedures such as ear cleaning or exercise to improve the condition of the neck may also be recommended.

In general, pain in the ear can be not only unpleasant, but also indicate serious health problems. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist in case of any doubts or questions related to your health.

Causes of ear pain

Ear pain can be caused by many factors, including:

• Acute or chronic inflammation of the middle ear is the most common cause of ear pain. It can appear as a result of a bacterial or viral infection, as well as due to allergic reactions, respiratory diseases and other factors.
• Diseases of the outer ear – inflammation of the external auditory canal, blockage of the ear canal with gray plugs, etc.
• Sinusitis is an infection that affects the lining of the internal cavities of the nose, eyes, and ears.
• Ear injury – can be caused by impact, excessive noise, changes in atmospheric pressure, and other factors. This can lead to damage to the ear, perforation of the eardrum, and other serious problems.
• Neck muscle tension – can cause ear and temporal bone pain.

It is important to pay attention to the symptoms and causes of the pain syndrome and consult a doctor immediately for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Self-medication can exacerbate the problem and lead to serious complications.

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Ear conditions that cause pain

The ear is one of the most important hearing and balance organs in our body. But unfortunately, it is prone to various diseases that can cause pain and discomfort. Consider the most common of them:

1. Otitis media is an inflammatory disease of the middle ear, which can lead to acute pain in the ear, especially when sleeping at night. Otitis media most often occurs with colds, as well as in violation of the hygiene of the ears.
2. Ear eczema is a disease characterized by inflammation of the external auditory canal. It can cause severe pain, itching, and redness of the skin around the ear. Most often, this disease occurs in people who take a shower using soap or shampoo, as well as in people with allergies.
3. Meniere’s disease is a disease of the inner ear that causes imbalance and dizziness. It is often accompanied by severe ear pain, which can lead to hearing loss.

If you experience pain or discomfort in your ear, be sure to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Self-medication can lead to complications and worsening of the condition.

Conditions that can cause ear pain

Acute and chronic otitis media

Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear that can be caused by an infection. A person with otitis media may have signs such as ear pain, hearing loss, and fluid coming out of the ear. Acute otitis media often resolves on its own, but in some cases antibiotic treatment may be needed. Chronic otitis can lead to ear damage or hearing loss and requires more serious treatment.

Ear injury

The ear canal can be damaged as a result of injury, such as a fall or a blow. This can lead to ear pain, bleeding, and hearing loss. In more serious cases, specialist treatment may be required.

Trigeminal neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia manifests itself in the form of sharp, sharp pains that begin in the ears and spread to the face and teeth. Prolonged pain symptoms can harm the patient and lead to a deterioration in the quality of life. Treatment may include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and other pain medications.

Snoring and sleep apnea

Snoring and sleep apnea can cause ear and head pain. This is due to the buzz and vibrations that are transmitted to the brain. Pain in the ears and head can be the consequences of disturbed sleep and constant fatigue caused by these syndromes. Treatment usually includes weight loss and lifestyle changes, and in more severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be required.

Diseases of the upper respiratory tract

Upper respiratory infections such as influenza, colds and sinusitis can also cause ear pain. This is due to a reaction to an infection when accompanying symptoms such as nasal congestion and soreness in the eyes and ears are present. Treatment consists of controlling symptoms and treating the infection with antibiotics or other drugs.

Injuries causing pain and discomfort in the ear area

Cuts and scrapes

Cuts and scrapes around the ear can cause pain and discomfort. This can happen when using a sharp object near the ear or during surgery in that area. In case of cuts and scratches, seek medical attention.

Bruises and bruises around the ear

Bruises and bruises around the ear can cause pain and discomfort. This can happen when dropped, hit, or rubbed against an object. If the bruise was severe, then there may be a violation of the integrity of the bone inside the ear, which may require surgical treatment.

Injury to the tympanic membrane

Injury to the tympanic membrane can result from injury, impact, or when attempting to clear the ear with a sharp object. This can cause discomfort, pain, and hearing loss. In case of damage to the eardrum, urgent medical intervention is required.

Symptoms of ear pain

Ear pain is the most common symptom of ear diseases and can be caused by both short-term inflammation and severe illness.

Discomfort in the auricle – often accompanied by pain and occurs when the auricle is compressed, trauma or diseases of the ear cartilage.

Burning and itching – may occur in the presence of an inflammatory disease of the ear, as well as in fungal infections or allergies.

A feeling of pressure in the ear – may occur with congestion in the lungs and other diseases that provoke the appearance of transient changes in the ear cavity.

Pain in the head and face – may be the result of radiating pain from the ear cavity in progressive diseases.

Temperature and general malaise – symptoms of purulent diseases. If they occur, you should seek medical help and start antibiotic treatment.

Cutoff of sound waves – In diseases of the inner ear and lesions of the tympanic membrane, auditory disorders often occur.

If you experience any of the described symptoms of widespread or recurring pain in the ear, you should consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis and start timely treatment.

Diagnosis of ear pain

To determine the cause of ear pain, the doctor performs an examination and prescribes a number of diagnostic procedures.

1. Examination of the ear and external auditory canal

The doctor performs an external examination of the ear and external auditory canal to check for inflammation, infection, or mechanical damage.

2. Audiometry

Audiometry is a hearing test that evaluates the ability of the auditory system to perceive and process sound signals.

3. Computed tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT) may be done if the doctor suspects a tumor, cyst, or other abnormality in the ear area. A CT scan will provide a detailed picture of the internal structures of the ear.

4. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

If CT does not give enough information, the doctor may order an MRI. This type of diagnosis allows you to get a more detailed image of the tissues inside the ear.

5. Air and sound test

Air and sound test to determine the presence of fluid or inflammation in the middle ear. In this case, special probes are inserted into the ear, which trigger a sound signal and serve to measure the pressure in the ear.

Depending on the causes of ear pain found, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antivirals, antihistamines, or other treatments.

Ear pain treatment

Treatment for ear pain depends on the cause of the pain. If the pain reaction is caused by an infectious disease, antibiotics are used. However, before you start taking them, you need to consult with your doctor and undergo appropriate examinations.

Inflammation of the middle ear can be treated medically or surgically if the disease progresses. In the process of treatment, it is important to observe hygiene measures, regularly wash the ear canals and remove clots of secrets.

General medicines such as analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve ear pain. Local anesthetics can also be effective, but you should consult your doctor before using them.

It is also important to pay attention to the prevention of diseases associated with the ear, such as acute or chronic otitis media, violations of the normal ventilation of the ear, the presence of diseases of the nose, mouth, throat. To do this, it is necessary to regularly undergo examinations by an ENT doctor and regularly wash the ear canals.

• Use of antibiotics for ear infections;
• Medical or surgical treatment of inflammation of the middle ear;
• Use of general or local anesthetics to relieve pain;
• Regular hygiene procedures aimed at eliminating secretions from the ear;
• Prevention of ear diseases through examinations and therapeutic measures.

Ear treatment

Otitis is an inflammation of the ear. Treatment should be carried out only according to the doctor’s prescription after examination and determination of the form of the disease. The main task is to stop the inflammatory process and prevent its recurrence. Treatment includes the use of antibiotics, antihistamines, and physiotherapy.

Inflammation of the auditory nerve is most often caused by infectious diseases, the nervous system can also be damaged by brain damage. Antibiotics and B vitamins are used for treatment. Painkillers are used for acute pain, and in some cases neuroprotectors are prescribed.

Otitis externa is an inflammatory process in the external auditory canal. Pain medications are prescribed for pain. Antibiotics and topical anti-inflammatory drugs are used to fight infection. It is not recommended to clean the ear yourself, there is a risk of damage to the eardrum and worsen life in the future.

• Use of antibacterial agents.
• Prescription of antiviral drugs.
• Physiotherapy.

Meniere’s disease is a chronic disease characterized by dizziness, nausea, vomiting, short-term hearing loss and tinnitus. Vacuum therapy and removal of internal pressure in the ear have shown positive results in the treatment of the disease. All treatments must be prescribed by a physician.

Perforation of the eardrum – rupture or damage to the mucous membrane of the auricle. In some cases, healing occurs on its own. In the absence of healing, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs are used. It is necessary to completely exclude visits to swimming pools, drinking fountains.

Treatment of diseases that cause pain in the ear

Treatment of diseases that can cause pain and discomfort in the ear, first of all, is associated with the elimination of the very cause of the pain. In most cases, this is due to diseases of the auricle, a violation of the integrity of the tympanic membrane, as well as the presence of inflammation of the middle and outer ear.

If the integrity of the tympanic membrane is violated, it is necessary to eliminate the causes that can cause this ailment. After this, it is necessary to conduct a course of antibiotics, which will help eliminate the developing inflammation in the middle ear. In cases where the eardrum does not heal on its own, surgical intervention is possible.

Otitis externa and inflammation of the external ear also require a course of antibiotics and special ear drops to help clear up the infection. The easiest way to relieve the pain associated with these ailments is to apply cool compresses to the ear.

In diseases of the auricle and other diseases that can cause pain and discomfort in the ear area, it is important to start treatment on time. Timely access to doctors contributes to the rapid and effective restoration of the state of the body. In any case, you need to contact an experienced specialist in order for him to assess the state of health and direct him to the necessary treatment.

Treatment of injuries that cause pain and discomfort in the ear area

Injuries related to the ear area can cause severe pain and discomfort. Most often, these injuries are associated with a violation of the integrity of the skin in the ear area, their perforation, as well as damage to the middle ear.

If the injury involves cuts, scrapes, or other superficial skin lesions, cleaning of the wound and mandatory use of an antiseptic is recommended. After that, a sterile plaster or bandage is applied to the wound and its condition is monitored. If the wound does not heal within 2-3 days, you should consult a doctor.

If the injury is related to damage to the middle ear, urgent medical attention is required. Most often, doctors conduct an X-ray examination, assess the degree of hearing loss. Depending on this, treatment can be either conservative or surgical.

Topical preparations such as sprays, drops or ointments are recommended to reduce ear pain and discomfort. They may contain ingredients such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and others. In addition, physiotherapy, orthopedic therapies, including the use of special ear plugs, may be prescribed.

All treatment and prevention measures should be carried out only after consulting a doctor, as improper treatment can lead to complete hearing loss, infectious diseases and other serious consequences.

Ear Pain Prevention

Find the right headphones: If you like listening to music or talking on the phone, you should choose headphones that do not press on the auricle and do not cause discomfort. Avoid using headphones for long periods of time and do not turn up the volume at a volume that could damage your hearing.

Take good care of your ears: Clean your ears regularly, using special products or regular warm showers. Do not stick sharp objects or sticks into your ears, as this can damage your eardrum and cause pain.

Protect your hearing: Avoid loud noises or prolonged exposure to noisy areas. If you work in a noisy job, wear ear protection to avoid hearing damage.

Keep your teeth and gums healthy: Infections in the dental cavity can spread to the ears and cause pain. Visit your dentist regularly and take care of your oral hygiene.

See a doctor: If you have ear pain, see your doctor right away. Only he can accurately diagnose and prescribe effective treatment.

How to avoid ear problems

The following tips will help you keep your ears healthy and prevent ear problems.

• Clean your ears properly. Never use sharp or thin objects to clean your ears. Use only special products recommended by your doctor.
• Avoid noise. Prolonged exposure to noisy environments may damage hearing organs. Use ear protection in noisy places.
• Avoid swimming in contaminated water. Contaminated water may cause ear infections. Wear ear protection when swimming in pools or open water.
• Avoid exposure to chemicals. Wear ear protection when working with chemicals or other harmful substances.
• Wear hats and hoods in cold weather. Cold air can lead to various ear diseases. Wear protective hats or hoods to prevent various ear diseases.

By following these tips and taking care of your ears, you can reduce your risk of ear problems.

How to avoid diseases that cause ear pain

1. Protect your ears from cold and wind. Wear a hat and make sure it fits snugly around your ears. Choose scarves that can protect your ears from wind and cold.

2. Avoid contact with sick people. Some ear diseases are transmitted through airborne droplets. Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of an ear infection.

3. Flush your ears properly. Do not use sharp or hard objects to clean the ears. This can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection. Use special cleansers, usually based on mild oils.

4. Maintain good hygiene. Wash hands regularly to avoid transmission of ear infections. Regular cleansing of the skin around the ears can also help prevent congestion.

5. Watch your allergies. Reactions to various foods and substances can lead to allergic reactions that can affect the ears and cause pain. If you have allergies, follow individualized treatment and avoid symptoms.

By following these simple guidelines, you can reduce your chances of developing ear problems and prevent pain.

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Q&A:

What could be the causes of pain near the ear?

Ear pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as inflammation of the middle ear, salivary gland disease, trauma, dental disease, gum infection, cervical disease, arthritis, post-surgery complications, or even facial muscle strain.

What symptoms can accompany pain near the ear?

Pain near the ear can be accompanied by symptoms such as stiffness and soreness of the muscles of the face, headache, redness of the skin, swelling, fever, hearing loss, dizziness, incoordination, etc.

How is pain near the ear diagnosed?

To determine the cause of pain near the ear, the doctor conducts a general and local examination of the patient, and may also prescribe additional examination methods, such as computed tomography, electromyography, X-ray, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and others.

How is pain near the ear treated?

Treatments consist of removing the cause of the pain and its accompanying symptoms. Depending on the cause, medications, antibiotics, physiotherapy, surgery, manual therapy, massage, facial muscle exercises and other methods are prescribed.

What can be done to relieve pain in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine?

For osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, you can perform special exercises for the neck, heat and massage the neck and upper back, and take analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs as prescribed by a doctor.

How long can the pain near the ear last?

The duration of pain near the ear depends on the cause of the pain. Some acute illnesses, such as otitis media, may resolve on their own in a few days or weeks, while chronic illnesses or conditions requiring surgery may continue for months or even years.

How can pain near the ear be prevented?

To prevent pain near the ear, you must follow the rules of personal hygiene, avoid hypothermia, take measures to strengthen immunity, monitor the condition of your teeth and gums, consult a doctor if you have any diseases, avoid traumatic situations and not self-medicate.

How to avoid injuries that cause pain and discomfort in the ear

To avoid pain and discomfort in the ear, you need to follow a few simple rules.

1. Avoid traumatic situations.

When playing sports or other activities where there is a risk of being hit on the ear, protection such as a helmet or brace must be worn. You should also avoid sudden head movements and do not play games with children that can cause ear injury.

2. Gently clean your ears.

Do not use sharp objects such as toothpicks or metal pins when cleaning your ears. It is better to use special means for cleaning the ears or consult an otorhinolaryngologist.

3. Avoid ear exposure to various chemicals.

Avoid contact with the ear when using cosmetics, surface cleaners or other chemicals. It is also necessary to avoid the use of untested drugs that can cause an allergic reaction, leading to pain and discomfort in the ear area.

4. Seek medical attention at the first sign of ear pain or discomfort.

At the first sign of pain, discomfort or other symptoms in the ear area, a doctor should be consulted. Early treatment will avoid serious complications and cure the problem faster.

When to See a Doctor for Ear Pain

Ear pain can be caused by a variety of causes, including infections, inflammation, and trauma. Some of these conditions can lead to serious consequences if not treated on time, so it’s important to know when to see a doctor.

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience the following symptoms:

• Sharp and intense pain that radiates to other parts of the head or neck;
• Fluid discharge from ear;
• High temperature;
• Dizziness or incoordination;
• Severe swelling of the face or neck.

For ear pain without accompanying symptoms, see a doctor if:

• The pain lasts more than two days and does not improve;
• Deafness or tinnitus;
• Severe pain when trying to open the mouth or chew;
• There was a spasm.

Irrespective of the presence of concomitant symptoms, it is necessary to consult a doctor for ear pain in children, as children’s anatomy can create a risk of various complications.

Your doctor may do an exam, lab tests, or tests to determine the cause of your ear pain and prescribe appropriate treatment. It is necessary to follow all the recommendations of the doctor in order to avoid possible complications and quickly restore health.

Ear pain

Ear pain

Pain in the ear (or otalgia) is a condition that can be caused by various factors.

The nature of the pain in the ear can be different: aching and “shooting”, pressing. At the same time, if pain sensations are localized mainly in the area of ​​​​the external auditory canal and intensify with pressure on the tragus, then this indicates in favor of otitis externa.

If the pain is localized mainly in the region of the middle ear and is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, then this indicates the development of otitis media.

If the pain is accompanied by dizziness, then this indicates damage to the internal parts of the ear.

Causes

• hypertrophy of the lymph nodes in the area of ​​the mouths of the Eustachian tubes and/or the lateral wall of the pharynx;
• inflammatory and changes in the root of the tongue and epiglottis;
• traumatic injuries of the ear and parotid tissues;
• adenoids;
• irritation of the temporal branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve;
• bacterial or viral infections;
• irritation of the intermediate nerve – branches of the facial nerve;
• diseases of the teeth and temporomandibular joint;
• irradiation of pain from areas innervated by the large ear, vagus, trigeminal and small occipital nerves;
• pathology of the cervical spine (with osteoarthritis, myalgia).

Class

Depending on the cause:

• primary pain in the ear (otalgia) – characterized by constant pain in the ear as a result of damage to its structural sections: more often as a result of inflammation of the outer or middle ear sections; children get sick more often;
• secondary pain in the ear (otalgia) – characterized by periodic pain in the ear without violating the integrity of its structural sections: more often as a result of irradiation of pain from areas that are innervated by the vagus, large ear, trigeminal, small occipital nerves; in diseases of the temporomandibular joints and teeth; older people get sick more often.

Depending on the time characteristics:

• acute pain in the ear (otalgia) – short in time; easily identifiable cause; usually localized in a certain area; responds well to treatment;
• chronic pain in the ear (otalgia) – pain lasting about 6 months or more, the cause of the onset is difficult to identify; with inaccurate localization; poorly treatable.

Features

In case of acute external limited otitis:

• appearance of a furuncle in the ear canal;
• discharge from the ear, with a sharp unpleasant odor;
• irradiation of pain in the jaw and eye area;

In acute diffuse otitis externa:

• severe ear pain;
• temperature increase;
• stuffy ear;
• discharge from the ear, with a sharp unpleasant odor;
• irradiation of pain in the jaw and eye area;

In acute suppurative otitis media:

• congestion and discomfort in the ear;
• sharp character of pain;
• purulent discharge from the ear;
• hearing loss;

For chronic otitis media:

• congestion and discomfort in the ear;
• unsharp, dull character of pain;
• catarrhal or purulent discharge from the ear;
• hearing loss;

In acute catarrhal otitis media:

• tinnitus;
• sharp character of pain;
• congestion and discomfort in the ear;
• hearing loss;
• catarrhal discharge from the ear;

For internal otitis (labyrinthitis):

• dizziness;
• tinnitus,
• pain in the ear;
• hearing loss;

With typical mastoiditis:

• severe reddening of the skin in the area of ​​the mastoid process;
• pain when probing the mastoid process;

With atypical mastoiditis:

• mild pain;
• slight discharge of pus;
• severe reddening of the skin in the region of the mastoid process;
• pain when probing the mastoid process;

For lymphadenitis:

• swollen lymph nodes located behind the auricle;
• fever;
• headache;
• ear pain;

For osteoarthritis:

• joint pain in the cervical spine:
• indistinctly localized character of pain;
• increased pain on exertion;
• irradiation of pain in the ear;

Myalgia:

• muscle pain in the cervical spine;
• weakness and swelling of the affected area;
• irradiation of pain in the ear;

In severe periodontitis, caries with pulpitis and periodontitis, basal granulomas:

• pain in the area of ​​the affected tooth;
• irradiation of pain in the ear area.