Sharp pain in the ear: Causes, symptoms, and treatments

Causes of sharp pain in the ear include pressure changes and infections. Often, they are not harmful, but some may need medical treatment.

The medical name for ear pain is “otalgia.” If the pain comes from within the ear, doctors call it primary otalgia. If it originates outside the ear, the term is secondary otalgia.

Below, we describe the many possible causes and their accompanying symptoms. We also outline ways to treat and prevent ear pain.

Share on PinterestSharp ear pain often results from pressure changes or infections.

Below are some causes of a sharp pain in the ear. The pain may result from one or a combination of these factors.

Each ear contains a narrow tube called a eustachian tube. It helps regulate the pressure inside the ear so that it matches the air pressure outside, enabling the eardrum to function properly.

Sometimes there is an imbalance in pressure, which may result from a blocked eustachian tube or a change in air pressure or altitude.

External pressure changes can cause a type of temporary ear damage called ear barotrauma. The symptoms can include:

• a feeling of pressure within the ear
• a sharp or dull pain in the ear
• hearing loss
• dizziness

Sinus infections

A sharp pain in the ear can sometimes result from an infection in the sinuses — a network of air-filled cavities in the skull.

There are three major types of sinus infection. They are:

• otitis, infection and inflammation of the ear, and the most common type of sinus infection
• mastoiditis, infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear
• sinusitis, inflammation of one or more paranasal sinuses, which are responsible for producing nasal mucus.

Sinus infections may be viral or bacterial.

Otitis

This, an infection in the inner or the outer ear, is one of the most common causes of ear pain.

An infection of the inner ear affects the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nasal cavity and the upper throat. This usually has a viral cause and is most common among children.

An infection of the outer ear affects the ear canal, the tube that connects the outer ear and eardrum. The infection usually involves direct irritation of the ear canal, such as from water or objects such as Q-tips. It is most common in adults.

Besides sharp pain, some possible symptoms of an ear infection include:

• difficulty hearing
• a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
• discharge from the ear
• itchiness or irritation in and around the ear
• a fever
• low energy

Temporomandibular disorder

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a musculoskeletal condition that primarily affects the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull.

People with TMD may experience sharp or dull jaw pain that radiates to the ears and temples.

Other possible symptoms of TMD include:

• clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw
• difficulty opening the mouth fully
• the jaw locking when when opening the mouth

TMD is not usually serious and tends to get better on its own.

A foreign object in the ear

A foreign object may become stuck in the ear canal. Children, for example, prone to inserting objects into their ears out of curiosity.

A foreign object lodged in the ear can cause:

• sharp or dull pain
• drainage from the ear
• hearing loss
• an infection

A person attempting to remove the object at home could inadvertently push it farther into the ear canal. Instead, see a healthcare provider, who uses specially developed tools and procedures to remove these objects.

Depending on the cause of the ear pain, a person may also experience:

• a loss of hearing
• tinnitus, which involves perceiving noises that come from inside the ear
• a loss of balance
• vertigo
• facial nerve paralysis

A person may only experience sharp ear pain in certain situations, such as when yawning or swallowing. These motions open the eustachian tubes, changing the pressure within the ear.

Over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) may help in the short term.

Otherwise, the best course of action depends on the cause and severity of the pain.

Recovery from an ear infection is usually spontaneous, so treatment is not always necessary. However, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the infection is bacterial.

A doctor will work to establish the cause of TMD, and they may then recommend one or more of the following:

• a prescription for stronger pain medication
• a referral to a dentist, if an issue such as teeth grinding or an incorrect bite is responsible
• a referral to a psychologist, if stress and anxiety are contributing

Over-the-counter pain relief medication can help ease minor to moderate ear pain and discomfort.

Also, holding a warm or cool compress against their ear may help alleviate the pain.

Some people use Q-tips to try to remove earwax, but this can actually push the wax back into the ear canal, causing problems. Anyone concerned about earwax buildups should see a doctor.

Ear infections are often responsible for a sharp pain in the ears, and these infections can be tricky to prevent. However, it can help to:

• not probe the ears with Q-tips or fingers
• prevent water and shampoo from entering the ears when showering or bathing
• use earplugs or a swimming cap when swimming
• treat eczema and other skin conditions
• treat any allergies to materials in hearing aids, if a person wears them
• avoid smoking and smoky environments

To prevent ear pain caused by changes in external pressure or altitude, try:

• yawning
• swallowing
• chewing gum
• sucking on hard candy
• blowing gently through pinched nostrils and swallowing

These can help open up the eustachian tubes, equalizing the pressure inside and outside the ear.

Sharp ear pain may resolve on its own. But if the pain is severe or the ear is bleeding, the person needs immediate medical care.

If someone experiences any of the following, they should consult a doctor:

• an earache that persists for more than 3 days
• recurrent ear infections
• swelling around the ear
• fluid draining from the ear
• hearing loss or another change in hearing
• a severe sore throat
• vomiting
• dizziness
• a fever or chills

Also, if sharp ear pain occurs in someone with any of the following health issues, they should see a doctor:

• diabetes
• a neurological disease
• heart disease
• lung disease
• kidney disease
• a weakened immune system

Sharp ear pain commonly results from an infection or a temporary change in air pressure or altitude. In other cases, it may stem from TMD or a foreign object lodged in the ear.

The pain, though unpleasant, may be no cause for concern and resolve without treatment.

However, if the pain is severe or persistent, or if it accompanies any other symptoms, such as bleeding or discharge, see a doctor. Sharp pain in the ear can stem from health issues that require prompt medical attention.

Sharp pain in the ear: Causes, symptoms, and treatments

Causes of sharp pain in the ear include pressure changes and infections. Often, they are not harmful, but some may need medical treatment.

The medical name for ear pain is “otalgia.” If the pain comes from within the ear, doctors call it primary otalgia. If it originates outside the ear, the term is secondary otalgia.

Below, we describe the many possible causes and their accompanying symptoms. We also outline ways to treat and prevent ear pain.

Share on PinterestSharp ear pain often results from pressure changes or infections.

Below are some causes of a sharp pain in the ear. The pain may result from one or a combination of these factors.

Each ear contains a narrow tube called a eustachian tube. It helps regulate the pressure inside the ear so that it matches the air pressure outside, enabling the eardrum to function properly.

Sometimes there is an imbalance in pressure, which may result from a blocked eustachian tube or a change in air pressure or altitude.

External pressure changes can cause a type of temporary ear damage called ear barotrauma. The symptoms can include:

• a feeling of pressure within the ear
• a sharp or dull pain in the ear
• hearing loss
• dizziness

Sinus infections

A sharp pain in the ear can sometimes result from an infection in the sinuses — a network of air-filled cavities in the skull.

There are three major types of sinus infection. They are:

• otitis, infection and inflammation of the ear, and the most common type of sinus infection
• mastoiditis, infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear
• sinusitis, inflammation of one or more paranasal sinuses, which are responsible for producing nasal mucus.

Sinus infections may be viral or bacterial.

Otitis

This, an infection in the inner or the outer ear, is one of the most common causes of ear pain.

An infection of the inner ear affects the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nasal cavity and the upper throat. This usually has a viral cause and is most common among children.

An infection of the outer ear affects the ear canal, the tube that connects the outer ear and eardrum. The infection usually involves direct irritation of the ear canal, such as from water or objects such as Q-tips. It is most common in adults.

Besides sharp pain, some possible symptoms of an ear infection include:

• difficulty hearing
• a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
• discharge from the ear
• itchiness or irritation in and around the ear
• a fever
• low energy

Temporomandibular disorder

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a musculoskeletal condition that primarily affects the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull.

People with TMD may experience sharp or dull jaw pain that radiates to the ears and temples.

Other possible symptoms of TMD include:

• clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw
• difficulty opening the mouth fully
• the jaw locking when when opening the mouth

TMD is not usually serious and tends to get better on its own.

A foreign object in the ear

A foreign object may become stuck in the ear canal. Children, for example, prone to inserting objects into their ears out of curiosity.

A foreign object lodged in the ear can cause:

• sharp or dull pain
• drainage from the ear
• hearing loss
• an infection

A person attempting to remove the object at home could inadvertently push it farther into the ear canal. Instead, see a healthcare provider, who uses specially developed tools and procedures to remove these objects.

Depending on the cause of the ear pain, a person may also experience:

• a loss of hearing
• tinnitus, which involves perceiving noises that come from inside the ear
• a loss of balance
• vertigo
• facial nerve paralysis

A person may only experience sharp ear pain in certain situations, such as when yawning or swallowing. These motions open the eustachian tubes, changing the pressure within the ear.

Over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) may help in the short term.

Otherwise, the best course of action depends on the cause and severity of the pain.

Recovery from an ear infection is usually spontaneous, so treatment is not always necessary. However, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the infection is bacterial.

A doctor will work to establish the cause of TMD, and they may then recommend one or more of the following:

• a prescription for stronger pain medication
• a referral to a dentist, if an issue such as teeth grinding or an incorrect bite is responsible
• a referral to a psychologist, if stress and anxiety are contributing

Over-the-counter pain relief medication can help ease minor to moderate ear pain and discomfort.

Also, holding a warm or cool compress against their ear may help alleviate the pain.

Some people use Q-tips to try to remove earwax, but this can actually push the wax back into the ear canal, causing problems. Anyone concerned about earwax buildups should see a doctor.

Ear infections are often responsible for a sharp pain in the ears, and these infections can be tricky to prevent. However, it can help to:

• not probe the ears with Q-tips or fingers
• prevent water and shampoo from entering the ears when showering or bathing
• use earplugs or a swimming cap when swimming
• treat eczema and other skin conditions
• treat any allergies to materials in hearing aids, if a person wears them
• avoid smoking and smoky environments

To prevent ear pain caused by changes in external pressure or altitude, try:

• yawning
• swallowing
• chewing gum
• sucking on hard candy
• blowing gently through pinched nostrils and swallowing

These can help open up the eustachian tubes, equalizing the pressure inside and outside the ear.

Sharp ear pain may resolve on its own. But if the pain is severe or the ear is bleeding, the person needs immediate medical care.

If someone experiences any of the following, they should consult a doctor:

• an earache that persists for more than 3 days
• recurrent ear infections
• swelling around the ear
• fluid draining from the ear
• hearing loss or another change in hearing
• a severe sore throat
• vomiting
• dizziness
• a fever or chills

Also, if sharp ear pain occurs in someone with any of the following health issues, they should see a doctor:

• diabetes
• a neurological disease
• heart disease
• lung disease
• kidney disease
• a weakened immune system

Sharp ear pain commonly results from an infection or a temporary change in air pressure or altitude. In other cases, it may stem from TMD or a foreign object lodged in the ear.

The pain, though unpleasant, may be no cause for concern and resolve without treatment.

However, if the pain is severe or persistent, or if it accompanies any other symptoms, such as bleeding or discharge, see a doctor. Sharp pain in the ear can stem from health issues that require prompt medical attention.

Ear Pain: How to Relieve Pain at Home

Content

• 1 How to Quickly Relieve Ear Pain: Simple Tips and Tricks
  • 1.1 Causes of Ear Pain
  • 1.2 Symptoms and Symptoms of Ear Pain
  • 1. 3 Danger of self-medication
    • 1.3.1 Why is self-medication dangerous?
    • 1.3.2 What problems can self-medication cause?
    • 1.3.3 How to avoid self-medication?
  • 1.4 How to properly examine the ear
  • 1.5 How to relieve ear pain?
    • 1.5.1 Ways to relieve pain:
  • 1.6 Using traditional medicine to relieve ear pain
  • 1.7 Prevention of ear diseases
  • 1.8 How to reduce pain in children
    • 1.8. 1 Apply a warm compress
    • 1.8.2 Drops in the ears
    • 1. 8.3 Taking medicines
  • 1.9 What to do about purulent dressing in the ear?
    • 1.9.1 1. Do not self-medicate
    • 1.9.2 2. Apply compresses
    • 1.9.3 3. Do not touch the dressing
    • 1.9.4 4. Take antibiotics
    • 1.9.5 5. Follow the doctor’s recommendations
  • 1.10 Related videos:
  • 1.11 Q&A:
    • • 1.11.0.1 What are the causes of earache?
      • 1.11.0.2 What symptoms may accompany ear pain?
      • 1.11.0.3 What should I do if my ear starts to hurt?
      • 1.11.0.4 How to understand that the ear is clogged with a gray nozzle?
      • 1.11.0.5 What can cause inflammation of the middle ear?
      • 1.11.0.6 How is otitis media treated?
  • 1.12 Waiting time before visiting the doctor
  • 1.13 Major mistakes in the treatment of pain in the ear
    • 1.13.1 Mistake #1: Self-treatment
    • 1.13.2 Mistake #2 : Incorrect use of drops
    • 1. 13.3 Mistake #3: Ignoring symptoms

      Appendicitis is an inflammation of the caecum that can lead to serious complications if not detected and treated promptly. Various factors, from nutrition to genetics, can trigger the development of this disease. However, while appendicitis can be unpredictable at times, there are a few common signs to look out for in order to prevent possible complications.

      How to recognize the symptoms of appendicitis:

      Pain in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen: Pain usually begins with mild pain around the abdomen or navel and then focuses in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, just above the waist line. It can build up over time and be very strong, especially when moving around, coughing or sneezing. In addition, pain can be given in the right leg or in the right shoulder blade.

      Nausea and vomiting: Other common symptoms of appendicitis are nausea, vomiting, and refusal to eat. Even if they don’t eat anything, patients may still experience vomiting.

      Difficulty urinating: In some cases, appendicitis can cause painful or difficult urination.

      What should I do if I have suspicious pain?

      If you experience lower abdominal pain and/or any of the symptoms listed, contact your healthcare provider for diagnosis and to avoid possible complications. An infected appendix can lead to peritonitis, which requires surgery and can be life-threatening.

      Causes of ear pain

      Ear pain can be caused by various causes. One of the most common causes is acute or chronic inflammation of the middle ear. Also, the disease can be caused by an inflammatory infection, which leads to tissue edema, impaired drainage, accumulation of mucus, and given the tight boundaries of the auricle, the ear can start to hurt a lot.

      Another cause may be damage to the external auditory canal. Bacteria or fungi can enter the ear canal through contact with contaminated water or hide on the surface of hygiene-related items. When they begin to multiply, the ear canal becomes irritated and starts to hurt. The pain may be accompanied by itching and swelling.

      • Ear pain can also be caused by:
      • Ear injury.
      • Formation of superaural hematoma.
      • Mechanical damage.
      • Diseases of the nose and throat.
      • Wax plug in the auditory canal.

      Treatment should be based on the cause of ear pain. Before starting any treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the cause and apply the appropriate type of treatment.

      Symptoms and manifestations of earache

      Ear pain can have many causes, from a cold to an infection. It can manifest itself differently depending on the cause. For example, in the presence of inflammation of the ear, the pain may be sharp, throbbing, and accompanied by the release of purulent fluid.

      If the ear is stuffed up, a pulsating sound or noise may be heard. There may be itching and aching in the auricle. Hearing loss is also possible.

      If the doctor detects the presence of cerumen in case of ear pain, the symptoms will be different. The pain may be severe and outside sounds difficult to hear. The ear itself is perceived as complex and filled as if there is a cork inside.

      1. Symptoms of ear pain:
      2. Sharp, throbbing pain
      3. Discharge of purulent fluid
      4. Ear congestion
      5. Itching and aching in the ear

      9 0005 Hearing loss

      6. Severe pain with wax plug

      No

      100%

      Danger of self-medication

      Why is self-medication dangerous?

      Self-medication can be dangerous, not only because of the possible side effects of the drugs you take, but also because the symptoms of many diseases are very similar to each other. For example, ear pain can be a symptom of both a common cold and a serious inflammatory process in the auricle. Lack of proper diagnosis and treatment can lead to complications and irreversible consequences.

      What problems can self-medication cause?

      • Wrong diagnosis and consequently wrong treatment;
      • Increased symptoms or worsening of disease;
      • Development of allergic reactions to drugs;
      • Development of drug dependence;
      • Drug overdose;
      • The development of side effects when using inappropriate drugs.

      How to avoid self-medication?

      In case of discomfort related to health, it is better to consult a doctor. Only a specialist can make the correct diagnosis and choose the right treatment. The doctor can also give advice on relieving symptoms before visiting a medical facility.

      If for some reason it is not possible to see a doctor, it is better to use safe and proven methods, such as traditional medicine or increasing the dosage of vitamins and minerals. In any case, you should not play with your own health and risk your life for the sake of saving time, money or distrust of medical care.

      How to properly examine the ear

      If the ear hurts, then you need to examine it to determine the cause of the pain. You can usually do this on your own, but if necessary, you should consult a doctor.

      Before examining the ear, wash your hands and dry them with a dry cloth. For inspection, you can use a mirror and a lighting lamp.

      Examine the outer ear for redness, swelling, discharge or sores. If there is a discharge, then you need to remember what color and consistency they are.

      Examination of the tympanic membrane is necessary to rule out damage to it, for this you need to look at its color and shape. If there is fluid behind the membrane, you can feel it “squeezing” against the side wall of the outer ear.

      In the event of severe pain in the inner ear, seek immediate medical attention. He will conduct a detailed examination and prescribe the necessary treatment.

      How to relieve ear pain?

      Ways to relieve pain:

      • – lying on your side where the ear does not hurt helps to reduce pressure on the affected ear and also helps to improve the flow of fluid from the ear.
      • Ear Treatment – Ear wash with saline solution and warm compresses to reduce swelling and relieve pain in the ear.
      • Taking anti-inflammatory medicines – medicines in the form of drops and tablets can reduce swelling and relieve pain in the ear.
      • Using Folk Remedies – Applying scientifically proven methods such as applying an onion to a sore ear, warming a salt bag, etc. can also relieve ear pain.

      If the pain does not go away after 2-3 days, you should immediately consult a doctor to determine the cause and treatment.

      Using Traditional Medicine to Relieve Ear Pain

      Aromatherapy. Some essential oils can help with ear pain. For example, tea tree oil is famous for its antimicrobial properties, which can kill bacteria and fungi that cause ear infections. Lavender oil can have both calming and anti-inflammatory effects. As a rule, a few drops of oil are brewed in an aroma lamp and the steam is breathed over for 10-15 minutes.

      Compresses. One of the oldest ways to relieve ear pain is compresses. You can use hot or cold products for this. A cold compress can reduce inflammation and reduce swelling, while a hot compress can reduce pain. Usually, flaxseed or cotton is used, soaked in hot or cold water and applied to the ear for 20-30 minutes.

      Folk remedies. Traditional medicine can also help with ear pain. For example, a decoction of St. John’s wort or calendula can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent. Walnut oil is also known for its soothing properties and can help with ear pain. However, before using any folk remedies, it is important to consult a doctor.

      Ear Prevention

      Ear health is essential to prevent and protect against disease. The following tips will help keep your ears in good condition:

      • Keep foreign objects out of the ears. Do not use sharp objects, sticks or other non-recommended tools to clean the ears.
      • Take care of your ears. Clean your ears with a soft cloth or sponge after showering or swimming. Do not overdo it with the depth of cleansing.
      • Avoid contact with contaminants. Wear hearing protection or earplugs if you work/live in an environment where there are noisy machines, machinery, construction activities or other sources of traumatic noise.
      • Conduct preventive research. Check your ears regularly, even if there is no pain or other problem. Monitor the health of your body and restore your general condition in a timely manner.

      Taking the above precautions will help you avoid ear damage and long-term illness. If there is any change in hearing or pain/swelling, contact your dentist or hospital for observation and appropriate treatment.

      How to reduce pain in children

      Children often suffer from ear pain if they have ARVI or acute respiratory infections. Because of this, pain syndrome can reduce the quality of life of the child and cause anxiety in parents. But there are several ways that will reduce pain, alleviate the condition of the child and help him recover.

      Apply a warm compress

      Warm compresses can be used to relieve ear pain in children. To do this, heat the oil a little in a saucepan or in the microwave and add a few drops of spruce, laurel or rosemary essential oil to it. Then, the lotion should be applied to the sore ear and covered with a scarf or towel. The compress should not be too hot, so as not to cause a burn.

      Ear drops

      Ear drops can be used to relieve children’s ear pain. These can be homeopathic drops based on plant extracts, antibacterial ear drops, or drops based on anti-inflammatory ingredients. All such drops should be used only after consulting a doctor.

      Medication use

      Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used for severe ear pain in children. However, you should not use them without consulting a doctor and clearly taking them in accordance with the instructions.

      • Warm compresses can help relieve ear pain in children;
      • There are special ear drops that will help relieve pain;
      • In case of severe pain, medications can be used after consulting a doctor.

      What to do with purulent dressing in the ear?

      1. Do not self-medicate

      If a purulent dressing appears in the ear, you should not try to treat it yourself. This can lead to worsening of the condition and the development of complications. You need to see an otorhinolaryngologist.

      2. Apply compresses

      Compresses based on chamomile, green tea, calendula or oak bark can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. These products help to disinfect the ear and reduce swelling.

      3. Do not touch the dressing

      In case of purulent dressing, do not try to pick it up or open it yourself. This can lead to infection of other tissues or complicate the healing process. This can trigger dangerous infections that can lead to surgery.

      4. Take antibiotics

      If you have a purulent dressing, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to fight the infection causing the inflammation. This is necessary to prevent complications and speedy recovery.

      5. Follow your doctor’s instructions

      Your doctor may prescribe additional treatments, such as an ear antiseptic or a pus injection. It is necessary to follow all the recommendations of a specialist in order to quickly get rid of the problem.

      Related videos:

      Q&A:

      What causes ear pain?

      Ear pain can be caused by a variety of causes: inflammation of the middle ear, obstruction of the outflow of fluid from the ear, damage to the eardrum, or the presence of cerumen. Sometimes ear pain can occur against the background of an allergic reaction or even a toothache.

      What symptoms can accompany ear pain?

      A feeling of fullness in the ear, buzzing in the ears, fever, headache, nausea, dizziness, and hearing loss may be symptoms of ear pain.

      What should I do if my ear starts to hurt?

      If you have ear pain, see your doctor. He will diagnose and prescribe treatment. While you’re waiting for your doctor’s appointment, you can try to relieve the pain with antibiotics or pain ointments, warming your ear with warm water, or massage oil applications.

      How can you tell if your ear is clogged with a gray tip?

      Usually, clogging of the ear with a gray nozzle is accompanied by an unpleasant odor from the ear and a feeling of congestion and heaviness in the ear. If you suspect that you have wax plugs, do not try to remove it yourself, this can lead to injury to the eardrum. It is better to contact an ENT doctor who will painlessly and effectively remove the cork.

      What can cause otitis media?

      Inflammation of the middle ear can be caused by an infection that has entered the ear through the nasopharynx and retropharyngeal adenoids, such as with a cold. Children whose throats are round and wide are at higher risk of developing otitis media, as the outflow of fluid from the ear is disturbed. Also, inflammation of the middle ear can be caused by trauma to the eardrum or the presence of tumors.

      How is otitis media treated?

      Treatment for otitis media usually includes antibiotics, pain relievers, and drops to help drain fluid from the ear. If the patient has cardiovascular diseases or high blood pressure, then additional measures are prescribed, for example, physiotherapy or special drops. If the treatment fails, the decision is usually made to proceed with surgery.

      Waiting time before seeing a doctor

      If you have an earache, you want to find a way to relieve the pain quickly. However, before you start treatment, you need to find out how long you need to wait before a visit to the doctor.

      Usually, if you have an earache, the first thing to do is to make an appointment with a lore. Some clinics provide an online appointment service, which greatly reduces the waiting time. In any case, you need to see a doctor within a day or two to avoid complications.

      If you have severe ear pain combined with high body temperature, you should immediately contact an emergency doctor.

      If you cannot make an appointment with Laura soon, you can visit a therapist. He will be able to prescribe treatment or recommend the right specialist. In any case, you should not delay the visit to the doctor, as worsening the condition can lead to serious consequences.

      The main mistakes in the treatment of pain in the ear

      Mistake # 1: Self-treatment

      One of the most common mistakes in the appearance of pain in the ear is the treatment without consulting a doctor. As a rule, ear pain may be associated with an infection or other disease, which will require appropriate treatment. Self-medication can only increase the risk of complications and aggravate the situation.

      Error #2: Incorrect use of drops

      Another common mistake is using ear drops unnecessarily or in violation of the instructions. Drops can provide quick pain relief, but misuse can lead to serious problems such as hearing loss or damage to the eardrum. Before using ear drops, be sure to read the instructions and consult your doctor.

      Mistake #3: Ignoring symptoms

      Another common mistake is ignoring the symptoms of an illness. If the ear hurts, it always needs attention. The disease can become serious if not treated in time. Even if the disease is not associated with an infection, immediate medical attention will help to avoid complications.

      In general, if you develop ear pain, you should definitely consult a specialist and avoid self-medication or misuse of drops, and do not ignore the symptoms. Only proper treatment and medical supervision will help you quickly and safely get rid of the disease and avoid possible complications.

      Different types of otitis – one danger!

      The city advertising newspaper ARENA published No. 20 with an interview with an otorhinolaryngologist-surgeon of the highest category Novozhilov A.A.

      Ear pain is one of the most severe types of pain known to man. And most often the cause of it becomes otitis. How to recognize otitis media in a small child in time? What complications are dangerous for otitis media, what remedies can provide first aid and which, on the contrary, can harm? When are ear drops a waste of time?

      Alexey Aleksandrovich Novozhilov, leading otosurgeon, otorhinolaryngologist of the multidisciplinary medical center “Alexandria” will answer questions.

      – Hello, Alexey Alexandrovich. The first question concerns babies. How can parents tell if their child has earaches?

      – It all depends on the age of the child. The younger the child, the more difficult it is to determine the cause of his anxiety. Children under one year of age have more pronounced general anxiety without local symptoms, sleep disturbance, screaming, loss of appetite. Sometimes the child stretches his hand to his ear, shrugs his shoulder on the affected side, a sudden start of the child may be observed. From 1 to 3 years old, if the child already knows how to talk or at least understands you, then he will be able to report his worries or show the place that worries him: touch, scratch. The ENT doctor will tell you exactly about the condition of your child’s ears after the examination.

      – Otitis externa, otitis media, internal – what’s the difference?

      – Our auditory analyzer consists of three parts: the outer ear (pinna, external auditory canal (to the tympanic membrane)), middle ear (tympanic cavity with ossicles), inner ear (labyrinth and cochlea). Otitis, depending on the localization, is accompanied by pain in the ear and ear area, fever, deterioration in general condition, and hearing loss. In severe cases, discharge from the ear, dizziness, problems with coordination are possible. Otitis externa is usually associated with improper ear hygiene, water entering the ears from public waterways when an infection is introduced into the ear canal, or injury from a foreign body. It is manifested by pain in the external auditory canal and ear area, a feeling of ear congestion, there may be discharge from the ear, fever.

      Up to 30% of ear diseases are due to otitis media. Most often, children under 5 years of age suffer from it due to the anatomical features of the structure of the ear (short and wide Eustachian tube, loose mucous membrane). Otitis media is divided into several subtypes depending on the degree of development of the inflammatory process (catarrhal, exudative, purulent). The patient has a feeling of ear congestion, tinnitus, hearing loss. In severe forms, there is a significant increase in body temperature, severe pain in the ear, headaches, general weakness, discharge from the ear (serous, purulent) is possible.

      As for inflammation of the inner ear, it occurs if otitis media is not treated. The infection penetrates the inner ear and provokes the development of labyrinthitis. In addition to pain, fever, patients experience imbalance, nausea, dizziness and vomiting.

      – Exudative otitis – what is it and how to treat it?

      – Otitis exudative is a non-purulent disease characterized by the accumulation of exudate in the tympanic cavity. One of the causes of the disease is a violation of the ventilation function of the auditory tube, which leads to the appearance of negative pressure in the tympanic cavity. For diagnosis, otomicroscopy is performed – a study to determine the condition of the eardrum, audiometry – to determine the type and degree of hearing loss, as well as tympanometry – to determine the level of mobility of the membrane. The initial forms of exudative otitis are amenable to drug treatment. According to indications, physiotherapy, blowing of the auditory tube, antibacterial therapy is prescribed. With a protracted course, severe hearing loss and no effect of therapy, surgical treatment is prescribed. Exudative otitis media is a very insidious disease, since, if left untreated, adhesions in the tympanic cavity may occur, persistent hearing loss may develop, and in the most advanced cases, deafness. The consequences of exudative otitis media can be adhesive otitis media. Both diseases often end in hearing loss.

      – Let’s talk about first aid at home. What can not be done with otitis media?

      – If you suspect otitis, you should definitely consult a doctor (preferably an ENT doctor). Only a doctor will be able to make a diagnosis and prescribe medication in accordance with the degree of complexity of otitis media. But it happens that the ears start to hurt unexpectedly: in the evening or at night, on a day off, on the road, in the country, when there is no way to quickly come to the reception. And the earache is unbearable. It is enough to take an anesthetic (nurofen, paracetamol) and drip vasoconstrictor drops (nazivin, xylene) into the nose. The compress will temporarily relieve pain, but will not cure. You also need to remember that if there is discharge from the ear, then a warming compress is strictly prohibited!

      Do not clean the ears with a cotton swab or other objects, do not remove foreign objects from the ear on your own. Also, you can not interrupt the treatment until the period indicated by the doctor, despite the fact that the pain has passed. Untreated otitis media can become chronic and lead to partial or complete hearing loss.

      – Can chronic otitis media be cured?

      – Chronic otitis is an inflammatory process in the ear, which is associated with persistent perforation (hole) of the membrane. In the presence of a defect in the membrane, the infection freely penetrates into the middle ear. Chronic otitis is manifested by persistent hearing loss and periodic discharge from the ear. Chronic otitis must be treated without fail, with untimely treatment, it can lead to purulent complications – abscess, meningitis, sepsis, etc. , since the focus of purulent inflammation is located very close to the brain, large vessels and nerves. Chronic otitis media leads to purulent exacerbations, hearing loss and significantly impairs the quality of life – you must constantly avoid getting water in the ear (when washing, bathing), you can not dive, any cold can lead to an exacerbation. If the membrane is damaged, exacerbations will continue. A simple perforation of the membrane causes periodic inflammation of the ear, over time this can damage the auditory nerve, which can no longer be restored. Chronic otitis media can be complicated by cholesteatoma, which destroys the middle and inner ear, can lead to paresis of the facial nerve, dizziness, complete deafness, and purulent intracranial complications. The use of drops is a way to relieve the exacerbation of otitis, to stop the discharge for a while. Sometimes, with hearing loss with the development of adhesions in the middle ear, impaired mobility of the auditory ossicles, patients install hearing aids to improve hearing.