What are the common causes of pain at the base of ear and jaw. How can you differentiate between primary and referred otalgia. What are the effective treatments for salivary gland infections and TMJ disorders. When should you seek medical attention for ear and jaw pain.

Understanding Otalgia: The Medical Term for Ear Pain

Otalgia, the medical term for ear pain or earache, encompasses a range of sensations from burning and stabbing to dull and sharp. This discomfort can manifest as a feeling of fullness, soreness, or even a clogged sensation in the ear. While the causes of otalgia vary widely, it’s essential to understand that benign causes are more prevalent than serious ones.

Otalgia is categorized into two main types:

• Primary otalgia: Pain originating from a problem within the ear itself
• Referred otalgia: Pain caused by an issue in a nearby structure, which is more common

Common Causes of Primary Otalgia

Primary otalgia stems directly from ear-related issues. The most frequent culprits include:

• Ear infections (otitis media and swimmer’s ear)
• Trauma to the ear canal
• Ear wax impaction
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• Meniere’s syndrome

In rare cases, otalgia may indicate a more serious condition, such as ear cancer. Primary ear pain is often accompanied by other symptoms like hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo, signaling direct ear involvement.

Ear Infections: A Leading Cause of Primary Otalgia

Ear infections top the list of primary otalgia causes. Two common types are:

1. Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa): An infection of the ear canal
2. Otitis media: Fluid or infection behind the eardrum

Do ear infections always cause severe pain? Not necessarily. While some infections can be extremely painful, others may present with a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the ear.

Exploring Referred Otalgia: When Pain Originates Elsewhere

Referred otalgia is pain felt in the ear but originating from another part of the body. Unlike primary otalgia, referred ear pain typically doesn’t come with other ear-related symptoms such as hearing loss or vertigo.

The Jaw Joint: A Common Culprit in Referred Otalgia

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated muscles are frequently responsible for referred ear pain. Several factors can contribute to TMJ-related otalgia:

• Anxiety and stress
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Taking large bites of food
• Excessive yawning or gum chewing
• Nail biting

Can TMJ disorders cause both ear and jaw pain simultaneously? Yes, due to the proximity of the TMJ to the ear, inflammation in this joint can lead to discomfort in both areas.

Neck Pathology and Referred Otalgia

Neck-related issues can also manifest as ear pain. Common factors include:

• Anxiety and stress
• Arthritis
• Whiplash injury
• Poor posture, especially during prolonged desk work

TMJ Disorders: A Major Cause of Jaw and Ear Pain

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are among the most frequent reasons for concurrent jaw and ear pain. The close proximity of the TMJ to the temporal bone, which forms part of the inner ear, explains this connection.

What are the common symptoms of TMJ disorders? Look out for:

• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Pain while chewing
• Persistent headaches or migraines
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Hearing loss
• Shoulder and neck pain
• Teeth shifting

If you suspect a TMJ disorder, seeking professional help is crucial. A TMJ specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options to alleviate both ear and jaw pain.

Dental Issues and Their Impact on Ear and Jaw Pain

Dental problems can be a surprising source of both jaw and ear pain. Conditions that may lead to this discomfort include:

• Periodontal disease
• Cavities
• Dental abscesses
• Bacterial buildup on teeth and gums

How can you identify if dental issues are causing your ear and jaw pain? Watch for these symptoms:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Facial pain
• Loose teeth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages
• Swollen gums

If you experience these symptoms alongside ear and jaw pain, a visit to your dentist may be in order. Addressing the underlying dental problem could provide relief from the associated pain.

Swimmer’s Ear: More Than Just a Nuisance

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal that can cause significant discomfort, including both ear and jaw pain. This condition often results from:

• Water exposure leading to bacterial growth in the outer ear
• Injury to the ear canal lining

How does swimmer’s ear develop, and what are its symptoms? The condition typically occurs when water remains in the ear after swimming or bathing, creating a moist environment ideal for bacterial growth. Symptoms may include:

• Ear pain that worsens when touching or pulling on the outer ear
• Itching in the ear canal
• Redness and swelling of the outer ear
• Drainage of clear, odorless fluid

If you suspect swimmer’s ear, especially after recent water exposure or ear injury, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate both ear and jaw pain associated with this condition.

Arthritis: An Unexpected Source of Ear and Jaw Pain

While many people associate arthritis with joints in the hands, knees, or hips, it can also affect the temporomandibular joint, leading to ear and jaw pain. Several types of arthritis can impact this area:

Osteoarthritis in the TMJ

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, can develop in the temporomandibular joint. This condition results from wear and tear on the cartilage surrounding the joint over time. Symptoms may include:

• Pain and stiffness in the jaw
• Clicking or grating sensation when moving the jaw
• Reduced range of motion in the jaw

Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis

These autoimmune forms of arthritis can also affect the TMJ. In these conditions, the immune system attacks healthy joints, potentially causing:

• Inflammation and pain in the jaw joint
• Swelling around the joint
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully

How can you differentiate between TMJ disorders and arthritis in the jaw? While symptoms can be similar, arthritis typically causes more widespread joint pain and may be accompanied by other systemic symptoms. A rheumatologist or TMJ specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Seeking Treatment for Ear and Jaw Pain

When faced with persistent ear and jaw pain, seeking professional help is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. The approach may vary depending on the underlying cause:

For TMJ Disorders

If TMJ is suspected, consulting a TMJ specialist or dentist experienced in treating these disorders is recommended. Treatment options may include:

• Oral appliances or night guards
• Physical therapy exercises
• Stress management techniques
• In severe cases, surgical intervention

For Dental Issues

A visit to your dentist is essential if dental problems are the suspected cause. Treatment may involve:

• Filling cavities
• Treating gum disease
• Addressing dental abscesses
• Improving oral hygiene practices

For Ear Infections

Ear infections often require medical intervention. A healthcare provider may recommend:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Pain relief medications
• Ear drops
• In some cases, drainage of fluid from the middle ear

For Arthritis

Managing arthritis in the TMJ may involve:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Lifestyle modifications
• In some cases, corticosteroid injections

When should you seek immediate medical attention for ear and jaw pain? If you experience severe pain, sudden hearing loss, high fever, or symptoms of facial paralysis, it’s crucial to seek emergency care as these could indicate a more serious condition.

Preventing Ear and Jaw Pain: Proactive Measures

While not all causes of ear and jaw pain are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

For TMJ Health

• Practice stress-reduction techniques
• Avoid excessive gum chewing or nail biting
• Be mindful of jaw clenching or teeth grinding
• Maintain good posture, especially when working at a desk

For Dental Health

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
• Address dental issues promptly

For Ear Health

• Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
• Avoid inserting objects into your ear canal
• Protect your ears from loud noises

Can lifestyle changes significantly impact ear and jaw pain? Indeed, many cases of chronic ear and jaw pain can be alleviated or prevented through simple lifestyle modifications and improved self-care practices.

Understanding the Connection: Why Ear and Jaw Pain Often Coexist

The frequent co-occurrence of ear and jaw pain can be attributed to several factors:

Anatomical Proximity

The ear and jaw are located close to each other, sharing nerve pathways and blood supply. This proximity means that issues in one area can easily affect the other.

Shared Nerve Innervation

The trigeminal nerve, which provides sensation to the face and jaw, also has branches that extend to the ear. This shared innervation can lead to referred pain between these areas.

Muscular Connections

The muscles used for chewing and those surrounding the ear are interconnected. Tension or problems in one set of muscles can impact the other.

How does understanding this connection help in diagnosis and treatment? Recognizing the interplay between ear and jaw pain allows healthcare providers to take a more comprehensive approach to diagnosis, considering a wider range of potential causes and developing more effective treatment plans.

When to Worry: Red Flags in Ear and Jaw Pain

While most causes of ear and jaw pain are benign, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

• Sudden, severe pain
• Rapid onset of hearing loss
• High fever accompanying ear pain
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Facial weakness or paralysis
• Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
• Blood or pus draining from the ear

What could these red flags indicate? These symptoms could be signs of more serious conditions such as mastoiditis, meningitis, or even tumors. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial in these cases to prevent potential complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Diagnostic Approaches for Ear and Jaw Pain

Accurately diagnosing the cause of ear and jaw pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic tools and techniques:

Physical Examination

A thorough examination of the ear, jaw, and surrounding structures can provide valuable insights. This may include:

• Otoscopy to visualize the ear canal and eardrum
• Palpation of the jaw and facial muscles
• Assessment of jaw movement and bite alignment

Imaging Studies

Depending on the suspected cause, imaging may be necessary:

• X-rays to evaluate jaw structure and detect dental issues
• CT scans for detailed views of bony structures
• MRI to assess soft tissues and detect tumors or inflammatory conditions

Audiological Tests

These tests can help identify hearing loss or other ear-related issues:

• Pure tone audiometry
• Tympanometry to assess eardrum function
• Acoustic reflex testing

Laboratory Tests

In some cases, blood tests or cultures may be necessary to diagnose infections or systemic conditions affecting the ear and jaw.

How do healthcare providers determine which diagnostic tests are necessary? The choice of diagnostic tools depends on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and initial physical examination findings. A step-wise approach is often used, starting with less invasive tests and progressing to more complex diagnostics as needed.

Innovative Treatments for Chronic Ear and Jaw Pain

For individuals suffering from chronic ear and jaw pain that doesn’t respond to conventional treatments, several innovative approaches are being explored:

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botox injections have shown promise in treating TMJ disorders and associated ear pain. How does this work? The toxin temporarily paralyzes overactive muscles, potentially reducing pain and improving jaw function.

Regenerative Medicine

Techniques such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy are being investigated for their potential to promote healing in the TMJ and surrounding tissues.

Neurostimulation

Devices that deliver electrical stimulation to specific nerves may help manage chronic pain in the ear and jaw region.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

While not a new treatment, CBT is increasingly recognized as an effective approach for managing chronic pain, including that associated with TMJ disorders.

4 Causes Of Jaw And Ear Pain

TMJ Treatment |3 min read

published February 16, 2020Last updated June 30, 2023

It’s possible to experience jaw and ear pain simultaneously for lots of different reasons. Although your ears and jaws are located in different areas, their close proximity can affect one another. Oftentimes when you develop a medical condition in your mouth, jaw, or ear, it can cause referred pain in the jaw and ear. If you’re experience jaw and ear pain at the same time, it might be due to the following problems.

1. TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders are one of the most common causes of jaw and ear pain. This is due to the temporomandibular joint being adjacent to the temporal bone which is apart of the inner ear. When the temporomandibular joint becomes inflamed it can cause pain and discomfort in the ears as well as the jaw. People might experience a muffled sound in the ears accompanied by pain. If you suspect TMJ is the culprit, visiting Bite Align for a TMJ consultation is the best place to start. With the right TMJ treatment, we can resolve your ear and jaw pain for good.

Symptoms of TMJ include clicking or popping noise in the jaw when opening and closing your mouth, pain when chewing, headaches or constant migraines, ear ringing, hearing loss, shoulder and neck pain, and even teeth shifting. Please schedule a consultation with us to learn more.

2. Dental Issues

If you have periodontal disease, cavities, dental abscesses, or a build-up of bacteria on your gums and teeth, it can cause severe pain in your jaw and ears. If you experience tooth sensitivity, pain in your face, loose teeth, sensitivity to cold or hot beverages, or swelling in the gums, it’s best to get checked out by your dentist. Treating your dental problems might be all you need to relieve jaw and ear pain.

3. Swimmer’s Ear

You may have experienced swimmer’s ear at some point in your life. It generally occurs from an injury like tearing the ear’s lining or water exposure that causes bacteria to form in the outer ear. These bacteria can cause painful symptoms like ear and jaw pain. If you believe you injured your ear or recently got water in your ear, visiting a doctor to see if you have swimmer’s ear can help you treat your pain.

4. Arthritis

Although most people don’t think about getting arthritis in the jaw, it can occur. Osteoarthritis can occur in the temporomandibular joint which can cause ear and jaw pain. It usually develops from wear and tear to the cartilage surrounding the joint over time. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis can also cause jaw and ear pain because it causes the immune system to attack healthy joints. This can cause joint pain throughout the body including the temporomandibular joint.

Get Treatment for Ear and Jaw Pain

One of the best ways to treat jaw and ear pain is to rule out what causes it. Visiting Bite Align in Fort Atkinson for a consultation can help you identify if TMJ is the cause or a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint. Please call 920-563-7323 or book an appointment online today.

Otalgia Ear Ache or Ear Pain

What Is Otalgia?

Otalgia is the medical word for ear ache or ear pain. It may be burning, stabbing, dull, sharp, sore, full, or clogged. There are many causes that range from benign to serious. Benign causes are more common than serious ones.

What Causes Otalgia?

There are two categories of otalgia. Primary otalgia is caused by a problem with the ear. Referred otalgia is caused by a problem of another structure usually near the ear. Referred otalgia is much more common than primary otalgia.

What Are Common Ear Causes of Otalgia?

Ear infections are the most common cause of ear pain in this category. Swimmer’s ear (infection of the ear canal) and otitis media (fluid or infection behind the ear drum) cause primary ear pain. Trauma to the ear with a cotton tipped applicator or finger nail may also cause ear pain and ear wax impaction. Dull ache or fullness may also result be experienced. Under ventilated ears (Eustachian tube dysfunction) or excess fluid in the inner ear (Meniere’s syndrome) should be considered by your doctor. Very rarely otalgia is a sign of malignancy (cancer) of the ear. Usually primary ear pain will cause hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo as a clue that the ear is directly involved.

What Are Common Causes of Referred Otalgia?

In referred otalgia, other ear symptoms like hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo are usually absent. The jaw joint and muscles are the most common cause of referred otalgia. Anxiety, stress, bruxism (grinding teeth), large bites of food, excessive yawning, nail biting, and excessive gum chewing are risk factors. Strain of the chewing muscles or sprain of the jaw joint can occur.

Neck pathology can also cause referred otalgia. Anxiety, stress, arthritis, whiplash injury, excessive office work, excessive cell phone scrolling, and neck popping are risk factors.

Gingivitis, cavities, and infected or abscessed teeth can cause referred ear pain along with dental problems.

Trigeminal neuralgia (nerve pain) may cause referred ear pain along with stabbing cheek pain after light touch or wind exposure.

Cancers of the head and neck may cause referred ear pain. Throat cancer may present with ear pain associated with difficulty swallowing or hoarseness. Cancer of the salivary glands may cause ear pain, mass of the cheek/jaw/neck, or facial droop.

Where Does Treatment Start?

With otalgia, the response to treatment can be useful to help find the culprit. Most causes are not serious. Conservative treatment is a good place to start. If you have risk factors for jaw strain/sprain, begin by resting your jaw. Maintain a soft diet for 1 week. Stop chewing gum and hard candies. Apply ice and/or heat to your jaw joint. Take ibuprofen daily for a week. Consider talking to your dentist about a bite guard to wear at night so that you do not grind your teeth. Also, if you have hurting teeth, you may be compensating your bite in a way that strains your jaw. Have this evaluated by your dentist as well.

If you have risk factors for neck strain take regular breaks when straining you neck. Stop habitual popping or cracking your neck. Take breaks from looking down at your cell phone. Take ibuprofen daily for a week. Consider neck physical therapy especially if you have had a whiplash injury.

If conservative measures do not work or if you have red flag symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, mass, facial droop an evaluation of your ear pain is recommended. It is important to find the cause of persistent ear pain and make sure the ear is healthy.

Ear pain

Ear pain

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

The nature of 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 lymph nodes in the region 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 greater auricular, vagus, trigeminal and lesser occipital nerves;
• pathology of the cervical spine (with osteoarthritis, myalgia).

Classification

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.

Signs

In acute external limited otitis media:

• 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;
• fever;
• 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;

In chronic otitis media:

• congestion and discomfort in the ear;
• dull, 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;

With internal otitis (labyrinthitis):

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

With typical mastoiditis:

• severe reddening of the skin in the region 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;

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 periodontal disease, caries with pulpitis and periodontitis, basal granulomas:

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

In what diseases occurs

• acute external limited otitis;
• acute diffuse otitis externa;
• chronic otitis media;
• acute suppurative otitis media;
• adenoids;
• acute catarrhal otitis media;
• otitis media (labyrinthitis) limited;
• diffuse labyrinthitis;
• purulent labyrinthitis;
• non-purulent (serous) labyrinthitis;
• necrotizing labyrinthitis;
• tympanogenic labyrinthitis;
• meningogenic otitis media;
• hematogenous internal otitis;
• typical mastoiditis;
• atypical mastoiditis;
• lymphadenitis;
• irritation of the temporal branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve;
• irritation of the intermediate nerve – branches of the facial nerve;
• irradiation of pain from areas innervated by the greater auricular, vagus, trigeminal and lesser occipital nerves;
• osteoarthritis;
• myalgia;
• severe periodontal disease;
• caries with pulpitis and periodontitis;
• hilar granulomas.

Doctors to contact

• otorhinolaryngologist;
• neurologist;
• dentist.

Why does the jaw near the ear on the left hurt so much that it even hurts to chew?

If the joint of the jaw near the ear hurts, treatment requires prior identification of the source of pain. Not always the problem is caused by diseases of the jaw. Without an examination by a specialist, it is definitely impossible to answer why the jaw near the ear hurts. The cause of the pathology can be various damage to soft and bone tissues from correcting malocclusion with braces to a malignant tumor.

Common causes of jaw pain include:

1. The need to wear braces or dentures. Correction of the bite, normal placement of teeth for some time is accompanied by pain.
2. Wisdom tooth growth. Deviation from the accepted norm (for example, the wrong angle relative to the jaw) causes damage to the soft tissues and the jaw itself. When chewing, the pain is aggravated.
3. Surgical intervention (removal of a cyst, the tooth itself) can cause pain for some time, but if it does not go away after the wound has completely healed, there is reason to assume the development of a new disease.

If the pain in the jaw is not related to the correction of the bite or surgery, it is recommended to visit the dentist as soon as possible.

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Diseases of the gums, maxillofacial apparatus

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Joint dysfunction. The pain manifests itself when trying to chew, tightly connect the upper and lower jaw. Sensations are given to the ear zone, the cheek area. It is worth opening your mouth wide, as clicks are clearly audible.

Jaw injuries

If the jaw hurts near the ear on the left, which hurts to chew, it may be the result of injuries. The severity of the damage determines the rate of disappearance of the symptom that prevents you from chewing calmly on one of the sides. The most minor injury is considered a bruise. Acute pain and swelling leave the owner after a few days.

A fracture is considered a rather dangerous injury to the jaw. In addition to severe pain, hemorrhage under the skin and swelling, the patient is faced with the fact that he is experiencing serious difficulties in opening his mouth. As a result of a fracture of the upper jaw, hemorrhage in the orbital region can be observed, which leads the specialist to assume a fracture of the base of the jaw. When, immediately after a fracture, the victim not only has an earache, but a clear liquid, blood, is released from it, he is taken to the hospital as soon as possible to provide qualified assistance.

ENT diseases

The jaw on the left near the ear can hurt so much that it hurts to chew as a result of running purulent processes or inflammation in the sinuses themselves. Among the ENT diseases that can cause pain when chewing on the left side, inflammation of the tonsils and tissues close to them are also noted.

Mumps or mumps is a viral inflammation of the parotid gland, making it painful, which is felt in the upper and lower jaw, ear. Additionally, the patient’s temperature rises, there is weakness, swelling on one side. The disease often occurs in childhood. Those who have been ill develop a stable immunity that does not leave the pathology a chance for a second attack.

Pain in the jaw near the ear: inflammatory processes

Caries of the jaw, which is caused by the movement of the infection along with the blood from the affected tooth to the jaw. This phenomenon is usually the result of trauma. In addition to painful sensations in the jaw, which tend to increase at the moment of chewing, a person also observes other changes in his body:

• high temperature, which can reach 40 degrees;
• swelling under the skin;
• asymmetry, distortion of the face due to severe swelling;
• examination of the oral cavity makes it easy to identify the “culprit”, which necessarily has pulpitis or a significant carious defect;
• inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes.

Abscess and phlegmon. Purulent lesions on soft tissues provoke high fever, acute pain. Separately, a paratonsillar abscess is isolated, which is considered a complication of angina. It has a special location next to the amygdala.

Pain caused by tumors

Most benign neoplasms do not have characteristic symptoms. If the jaw near the ear hurts as a result of a benign tumor, then the patient is suspected of one of three variants of the disease:

1. Adamantinoma. The tumor affects the chewing process due to the thickening of the jaw. If at an early stage the soreness of the jaw is mild, then the progression of the pathology provides acute and severe pain.
2. Osteoid osteoma. The growth of such a tumor is very slow. Acute pains at the first stage disturb only during sleep. When the size of the tumor becomes such that it provokes asymmetry of the face, pain also occurs when chewing.
3. Osteoblastoclastoma. The pain is aching in nature, a fistula appears on the skin, and a tumor with a light pink tint is observed on the gums.

Malignant tumors are extremely difficult to distinguish from benign tumors without proper testing. There are several types of malignant tumors. Cancer itself is a lesion of soft tissues close to the jaw. Pathology grows deep into the tissues at high speed, causing loosening of the teeth and their subsequent loss. Pain gain intensity gradually.

With the development of a malignant tumor in the connective tissue, a rapid growth of pathology is observed. The disease brings a person intense shooting pain. The patient may be misled by the fact that at the first stage of the disease he observes not pain, but a decrease in the sensitivity of the mucous membrane and skin.

Osteogenic sarcoma grows in bone tissues. The pain is characterized by duration and strength, gradually it begins to spread to the ear area and face.

Prolonged severe pain in the jaw begins to gradually seize new territories, spreading to the ear area, as well as the face.

Neurological pathologies

Nerve pathologies can cause pain that is felt in the temporomandibular joint and in the ear area. Specialists identify:

1. Neuralgia of the superior laryngeal nerve. The gradual increase in pain is especially pronounced when yawning and eating. Additional signs include hiccups, active salivation, and coughing.
2. Trigeminal neuralgia. Pain near the ear is accompanied by a burning sensation. It becomes especially intense at night.

Vascular diseases

If blood flow is disturbed, arteritis of the facial artery develops. The disease is characterized by severe burning pain. The defeat of the facial artery causes a strong painful feeling in the lower jaw. Discomfort is given for frequent in the eye area. If the carotid artery is affected, then the pain increases when you try to touch the face and neck area.

Pathologies with impaired blood flow, such as angina pectoris or heart attack, are not usually associated with jaw pain. However, experts register non-standard development of the disease. There are cases when there is no habitual acute pain behind the sternum, and the attack is accompanied by a sharp intense pain in the lower jaw on the left side.

Such a course of the disease is extremely dangerous and very rarely forces the patient to consult a cardiologist. A sharp toothache leads a person to a dentist, who, not knowing about the concomitant diseases of the cardiovascular system of his client, can begin to treat his teeth.

Jaw hurts near the ear: what to do?

The occurrence of acute pain in one of the jaws near the ear requires the patient to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Many diseases can become a threat to human life if timely treatment is not taken.

Any injury to the face that hits the jaw requires an early visit to the emergency room to rule out complications, determine the absence of splinters.

Inflammatory processes are treated only under the supervision of a specialist. With the ineffectiveness of drug therapy, in advanced cases, one has to resort to surgical intervention.

In some cases, the patient has to endure acute pain due to the inability to immediately contact the dentist for help.