What are the main causes of sharp ear pain. How can you identify the symptoms of ear infections. What are the most effective treatments for ear pain. When should you seek medical attention for ear discomfort.

Understanding the Anatomy of Ear Pain

Ear pain, medically known as otalgia, can be a distressing experience. It’s crucial to understand the distinction between primary and secondary otalgia. Primary otalgia originates within the ear itself, while secondary otalgia stems from sources outside the ear. This differentiation is key to proper diagnosis and treatment.

The ear is a complex organ, consisting of three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Each section plays a vital role in hearing and balance, and problems in any of these areas can lead to sharp pain. Understanding this anatomy helps in pinpointing the source of discomfort.

The Eustachian Tube: A Key Player in Ear Health

One of the most important structures in ear health is the Eustachian tube. This narrow passageway connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, regulating air pressure within the ear. When this tube malfunctions or becomes blocked, it can lead to significant discomfort and sharp pain.

Pressure Changes and Ear Barotrauma

Pressure changes are a common cause of sharp ear pain. This condition, known as ear barotrauma, occurs when there’s an imbalance between the air pressure inside and outside the ear. It’s often experienced during air travel, scuba diving, or rapid changes in altitude.

• Feeling of pressure within the ear
• Sharp or dull pain
• Temporary hearing loss
• Dizziness

How can you prevent ear barotrauma? Equalizing pressure during ascent or descent in air travel by yawning, swallowing, or using specialized earplugs can help. For those who frequently experience this issue, consulting with an ENT specialist may provide more personalized solutions.

Sinus Infections and Their Impact on Ear Health

Sinus infections can be a surprising source of ear pain. The sinuses and ears are closely connected, and inflammation in one area can affect the other. There are three primary types of sinus infections that can cause ear pain:

1. Otitis: Infection and inflammation of the ear
2. Mastoiditis: Infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear
3. Sinusitis: Inflammation of one or more paranasal sinuses

Can sinus infections lead to permanent ear damage? While most sinus infections are temporary and resolve with proper treatment, chronic or severe cases can potentially cause long-term ear problems. It’s essential to address sinus issues promptly to prevent complications.

Ear Infections: A Common Culprit of Sharp Pain

Ear infections are among the most frequent causes of sharp ear pain. They can affect either the inner or outer ear, each presenting with distinct characteristics and treatment needs.

Inner Ear Infections

Inner ear infections typically involve the Eustachian tube and are often viral in nature. They’re more common in children and can cause:

• Difficulty hearing
• Pressure or fullness in the ear
• Fever
• Low energy

Outer Ear Infections

Outer ear infections affect the ear canal and are more prevalent in adults. They’re often caused by water exposure or irritation from objects like cotton swabs. Symptoms include:

• Sharp pain
• Itchiness or irritation around the ear
• Discharge from the ear

How long do ear infections typically last? Most ear infections clear up within 1-2 weeks, but some may persist longer. If symptoms don’t improve after a few days or worsen, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider.

Temporomandibular Disorder: When Jaw Problems Cause Ear Pain

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is a condition affecting the jaw joints that can surprisingly lead to ear pain. This musculoskeletal issue can cause sharp or dull pain radiating from the jaw to the ears and temples.

Symptoms of TMD include:

• Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully
• Jaw locking when opening or closing the mouth

Is TMD a serious condition? While TMD can be uncomfortable and disruptive, it’s generally not serious and often improves on its own. However, persistent or severe cases may require professional intervention.

Foreign Objects in the Ear: A Hidden Danger

Sometimes, sharp ear pain can result from a foreign object lodged in the ear canal. This scenario is particularly common in children, who may insert small objects out of curiosity. The presence of a foreign object can lead to:

• Sharp or dull pain
• Drainage from the ear
• Hearing loss
• Potential infection

Why shouldn’t you attempt to remove a foreign object from the ear at home? Attempting to remove an object yourself can push it further into the ear canal, potentially causing more damage. It’s always best to seek professional medical help for safe removal.

Associated Symptoms and Complications of Ear Pain

Sharp ear pain rarely occurs in isolation. Depending on the underlying cause, individuals may experience a range of associated symptoms:

• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Balance issues
• Vertigo
• Facial nerve paralysis (in severe cases)

In some instances, ear pain may only manifest during specific actions like yawning or swallowing. These movements can change the pressure within the ear by opening the Eustachian tubes, potentially exacerbating existing issues.

How can you differentiate between temporary discomfort and a more serious condition? Persistent pain, severe symptoms, or pain accompanied by fever or hearing loss warrant immediate medical attention. These could indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring prompt treatment.

Treatment Options for Sharp Ear Pain

The treatment for sharp ear pain largely depends on its underlying cause. However, there are several general approaches that can provide relief:

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

For mild to moderate pain, over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can be effective. These can help manage pain and reduce any associated inflammation.

Antibiotics for Bacterial Infections

If the ear pain is due to a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. It’s important to note that not all ear infections require antibiotics, as many are viral and will resolve on their own.

Treating Temporomandibular Disorder

For TMD-related ear pain, treatment may involve:

• Prescription pain medication
• Dental referral for issues like teeth grinding
• Psychological support if stress is a contributing factor

Home Remedies

Some home remedies can provide relief from ear pain:

• Applying a warm or cool compress to the affected ear
• Using over-the-counter ear drops (under medical guidance)
• Maintaining good ear hygiene

Are there any risks associated with using ear drops for pain relief? While ear drops can be effective, it’s crucial to use them as directed. Overuse or using the wrong type of drops can potentially lead to further irritation or complications.

Prevention and Long-Term Ear Health

Preventing ear pain and maintaining long-term ear health involves several key practices:

• Avoiding insertion of objects into the ear canal, including cotton swabs
• Protecting ears from loud noises and extreme temperature changes
• Keeping ears dry to prevent infections
• Regular check-ups with an ENT specialist, especially for those prone to ear issues

How often should you have your ears professionally cleaned? For most people, professional ear cleaning isn’t necessary unless there’s a specific issue. The ear is self-cleaning, and excessive cleaning can disrupt its natural processes. However, individuals with recurrent ear problems may benefit from periodic professional cleaning as advised by their healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ear Pain

While many cases of ear pain resolve on their own, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medication
• Pain accompanied by high fever
• Sudden hearing loss
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Discharge from the ear, especially if bloody
• Swelling or redness around the ear

What should you expect during a medical examination for ear pain? A typical ear examination involves the use of an otoscope to view the ear canal and eardrum. The doctor may also perform tests to check hearing and balance. Based on the findings, they will recommend appropriate treatment or further diagnostic tests if necessary.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sharp ear pain is crucial for maintaining ear health and overall well-being. By recognizing the signs of potentially serious conditions and knowing when to seek medical help, individuals can ensure prompt and effective treatment, minimizing the risk of complications and long-term hearing issues.

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: causes and treatment

The article was checked by a doctor: Kogan Elena Lvovna

Anatomy of the ear

The ear is a paired organ located in the temporal bones of the skull. Its main function is the perception of sound, the position of the body in space and the maintenance of balance.

The ear is made up of three sections:

• Outer ear. Forms the auricle and external auditory canal. Picks up sound vibrations and transmits them to the middle ear.

• Middle ear. It is formed by the tympanic cavity and three auditory ossicles: anvil, stirrup and malleus. Picks up sounds from the outer ear and amplifies them.

• Inner ear. It contains the cochlea, semicircular canals and vestibular apparatus. Perceives sound vibrations, and transmits auditory information to the cortex of the temporal lobe of the brain.

The structure and function of each part of the ear is different. Any pathological processes in all three departments also proceed differently.

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Causes of pain in the ears

Ear pain has a different intensity (from moderate to severe), duration (from short-term to permanent), character (sharp, dull, shooting, spreading to neighboring areas). Separately, there is an acute form of pain, lasting about 10 days, and chronic, which can be permanent or episodic. At the place of occurrence, there is one- and two-sided pain in the ear.

Otalgia occurs for various reasons. In 80% of cases, pain is associated with infectious and inflammatory diseases of the ear, throat and nose. Due to the anatomical proximity, inflammation of one of these organs provokes pain in other adjacent cavities.

Most often, pain inside the ear is a symptom of otolaryngological diseases:

• otitis,

• mastoiditis,

• eustachitis,

• boil,

• sulfur plug,

• ear tumors,

• boil,

• myringitis,

• otomycosis.

The patient experiences pain in the ear with craniocerebral injuries, the ingress of a foreign body into the ear canal. Otalgia can be a non-specific manifestation of mumps, neurological disorders, dental diseases, and nasopharyngeal cancer.

Otitis

This is inflammation in different parts of the ear of an acute or chronic course. It is equally common in children and adults. The disease is provoked by various infections, more often these are influenza viruses and SARS, pneumococcus, candida (fungi). The likelihood of developing otitis media increases after surgical operations in the nasal cavity and nasopharynx, with immunodeficiency states, adenoids.

The first sign is pain in the ear of a different nature: throbbing, shooting, aching. The pain is often unilateral, but there is also bilateral inflammation. Simultaneously with otalgia, there is a general malaise, high temperature, tinnitus, hearing loss.

Pain inside the ear appears different variants of the inflammatory process:

• Otitis externa. The pain is throbbing, intense, gives to the neck, eyes and teeth, intensifies during conversation and chewing. On examination, a reddened auricle and the visible part of the ear canal are found. Hearing, as a rule, is not disturbed.

• Otitis media. The disease begins with a sudden shooting pain in the ear, which periodically worsens. Sometimes the pain is so pronounced that it disrupts the usual way of life and sleep. Painful sensations persist from one to three days, after which the tympanic membrane ruptures, and mucopurulent discharge comes out of the ear canal. At this moment, the patient’s condition stabilizes, body temperature normalizes, and the intensity of otalgia decreases. The eardrum heals slowly without hearing loss.

• Otitis media or labyrinthitis. A typical symptom of the disease is a severe sudden attack of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Some patients complain of noise and ringing in the ears. Otalgia is moderate, and is more felt in the temporal zone. Hearing is usually reduced.

With the unfavorable development of otitis media, pus does not pour outward, but inward, which is dangerous with irreversible hearing loss, inflammation of the temporal bone, brain abscess (formation of a purulent cavity), meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the spinal cord and brain).

A separate place among the causes of otalgia is occupied by diffuse otitis externa (swimmer’s ear). This is an inflammation of the external acoustic canal, with possible damage to the auricle and tympanic membrane, due to water entering the ear.

The main signs of the disease:

• discharge from the ear of different consistency and color;

• itching in the ear canal;

• throbbing pain inside the ear, which spreads to the upper and lower jaw, temporal zone.

Pressure on the ear, pulling on the lobe, chewing increase the pain. The general condition usually does not worsen, there are no signs of intoxication. Sometimes the parotid lymph nodes are enlarged.

Eustachitis or tubootitis

This is an inflammatory lesion of the auditory (Eustachian) tube, which leads to a violation or complete cessation of air flow into the tympanic cavity. Eustachitis is characterized by unilateral, rarely bilateral pain, hearing loss, a feeling of pressure and fullness in the ear canal. Some patients feel heaviness in the head, a feeling of overflowing liquid when moving the head, increased perception of one’s own voice. Symptoms of intoxication and high body temperature indicate the development of purulent tubo-otitis.

Mastoiditis

This is an infectious inflammation of the mastoid process of the temporal bone, which is located behind the auricle. Usually, mastoiditis occurs as a complication of otitis media, and develops 7–14 days after its onset. It starts with headache, temperature, intoxication. In parallel, there is pain inside the ear and behind the ear, hearing loss, a feeling of pulsation in the ear canal. On examination, the behind-the-ear area is reddened and edematous, the auricle protrudes, and there is a copious outflow of pus from the ear.

Injuries

Ear injuries occur for various reasons: a blow with a blunt object, a foreign object, a bullet and knife wound, a burn, damage during medical procedures. Often, the outer ear is injured due to its unprotected anatomical position, less often the eardrum, ear canal, middle and inner ear.

Ear pain is the main symptom of any injury. The pain has a different intensity, from minor discomfort to unbearable. Other symptoms depend on the nature and extent of the damage. Trauma of the auricle is accompanied by the formation of a hematoma, bleeding, hearing loss. Damage to the eardrum is characterized by tinnitus, the release of perilymph (a viscous fluid that is involved in the conduction of sound vibrations).

If an ear injury is one of the consequences of a traumatic brain injury, then headache, dizziness, nausea, flushing of the face, tinnitus and coordination disorder come to the fore. The pain is felt not only inside the ear, but also radiates to the temporal part, the mastoid process. Possible external bleeding.

Diseases of the teeth

Running inflammation of the tissues surrounding the tooth (pulpitis, periodontitis, periodontal disease), deep caries of chewing teeth provoke painful sensations inside the ear. The pain is intense, constant, throbbing, radiating to the neck and temple. Patients simultaneously experience nasal congestion, headache.

Help! A characteristic sign of otalgia on the background of diseases of the teeth is an increase in pain inside the ear when pressing on the diseased tooth.

Sulfur Plug

With an increase in the amount of earwax formation, it accumulates and thickens in the bone part of the external auditory canal. The presence of sulfur plug leads to blockage of the ear canal. For a long time, there are no symptoms, until the auditory canal is completely blocked. Clinically, this is manifested by hearing loss, ear congestion, noise and pain inside the ear. If the sulfur plug puts pressure on the eardrum, then the general condition is complicated by dizziness, headache and nausea.

Mumps (mumps)

This is an infection of the salivary glands and nervous tissue. Has a similar clinic with otitis media and eustachitis. A typical symptom is inflammation of the salivary glands, their swelling and soreness. There is pain and swelling in the parotid region. Unpleasant sensations are aggravated at night, when chewing, pressing behind the earlobe. Disturbs the noise inside the ear, sometimes hearing is reduced.

Concomitant symptoms – general weakness, chills, malaise, dry mouth, fever. The oval of the face is deformed, pear-shaped.

Neurological disorders

Neuralgia of the ear node is characterized by bouts of otalgia in the parotid region and inside the ear from the side of the lesion. The pain is intense, burning, throbbing, spreading to the back of the head, ear, shoulder girdle and lower jaw, sometimes even to the arm and upper chest. Hearing is not broken.

The attack of pain lasts from several minutes to an hour, and even more. During an attack, increased salivation is observed, which is not observed in the interictal period. Reception of hot food, stress, hypothermia increase painful sensations.

With neuralgia of the glossopharyngeal nerve, pain is felt at the root of the tongue, but often also radiates to the ear. Chewing, coughing, taking cold and hot food, drinks provoke a painful attack.

Tumors of the ear

Neoplasms are benign and malignant. Predominantly occur in the outer and middle ear. For a long time they do not manifest themselves clinically. For the first time, painful sensations in the ear occur at the time of active growth of the neoplasm, which puts pressure on the surrounding tissues.

A tumor in the tympanic membrane compresses the vestibule of the ear, which causes neurological disorders: dizziness, lack of coordination, involuntary oscillatory eye movements.

Malignant tumors of the ears are characterized by burning and baking pain, similar to a burn. At first, the pain is episodic, but as the neoplasm grows, it becomes permanent and radiates to the temple. Another characteristic sign of oncopathology is purulent bloody discharge from the ear.

Foreign body in the ear

The presence of a foreign object in the ear canal is accompanied by bursting pain. The pain is constant, not stopped by painkillers, ear drops. A foreign body disrupts the ventilation and pressure of the auditory tube, which leads to a feeling of pressure and congestion, and a decrease in hearing acuity.

Injury to the ear canal with a sharp object can cause bleeding. Rarely, patients experience dizziness and headache.

Long-term presence of a foreign body in the ear canal is complicated by the inflammatory process. In this case, the intensity of pain increases, acquires a pulsating character, mucopurulent discharge from the ear appears.

Furuncle

This is a purulent inflammation of the sebaceous gland or hair follicle of a part of the outer ear, the auricle. The disease begins with itching and discomfort inside the ear. Then there is a feeling of fullness, pressure, and only then does pain appear. The pain is pulsating, is of a constant nature, spreads to the temporal and occipital zone, neck and head. Any touch, chewing increases the intensity of pain.

The skin of the auricle and the visible part of the auditory canal is swollen and reddened. The purulent-inflammatory process disrupts the ventilation of the auditory canal, which causes hearing loss. There is also an intoxication syndrome, fever, febrile temperature. Relief brings a breakthrough of the abscess, which on average occurs 5-7 days after the onset of the disease. After that, suppuration appears, a decrease in the severity of pain, an improvement in hearing and general condition.

Myringitis

This is an acute or chronic inflammation of the eardrum. It often occurs as a complication of other ear diseases. The first symptom is severe unilateral throbbing pain inside the ear. It intensifies when chewing, is practically not stopped by painkillers, disturbs sleep.

In some patients, instead of otalgia, discomfort and a feeling of heaviness in the ear canal are felt. In parallel, hearing acuity decreases, ear congestion occurs. There is a small amount of serous discharge from the ear canal.

Otomycosis

This is a fungal infection that most often affects the middle and outer ear. Pathology has no specific signs, and is manifested by otalgia, noise and congestion in the ear, expiration of secretions, and a decrease in the quality of hearing. Puffiness of the skin of the outer ear develops, partial or complete overlap of the auditory lumen, the temporomandibular joint and the parotid gland become inflamed.

Help! At risk for the occurrence of otomycosis are those who go in for swimming, have undergone organ surgery or surgical treatment of mastoiditis.

Cancer of the nasopharynx

This is a malignant tumor of the nasal part of the pharynx. Usually the disease debuts at the age of over 50 years. The reasons are not exactly clear. Risk factors include alcohol abuse, smoking, chronic rhinosinusitis, infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (herpesvirus type 4), and hereditary predisposition.

In the nasopharyngeal region, sarcoma, carcinoma and other types of malignant neoplasms can occur. The clinical picture depends on the stage of cancer and the presence of metastases. In the early period, asymptomatic course is possible.

As the disease progresses, signs from the ear, throat and nose appear:

• nasal congestion,

• nasal bleeding,

• nasality,

• the presence of painful compaction in the nasopharynx,

• Ear ache,

• hearing loss,

• noise and ringing in the ears.

Ear pain is more often unilateral from the side of the localization of the tumor, it is felt simultaneously in the zone of the lower jaw and tongue. There is a gradual violation of the perception of speech and surrounding sounds.

The patient’s condition is aggravated by neurological disorders: headache, dizziness, chewing and speech disorders, paralysis of the facial muscles. Usually, in cancer of the nasopharynx, metastases affect the lungs, liver, and bones.

Diagnosis of causes of ear pain

Get expert advice:

• ENT (otolaryngologist)
• ENT for children (otolaryngologist)

A person who has an earache needs to consult an otolaryngologist. Children under 18 are under the supervision of a pediatrician or pediatric otolaryngologist.

A preliminary diagnosis is made after examining the external auditory canal, nasopharynx, oropharynx, paranasal sinuses visually and using endoscopic equipment. From a conversation with the patient, the doctor specifies the conditions for the onset of pain and frequency, a possible antecedent factor, and other accompanying symptoms.

To study the cause of otalgia and choose further treatment tactics, laboratory and instrumental diagnostics is carried out:

• Otoscopy. Examination of the external auditory canal and tympanic membrane with the help of special instruments and a lighting device. With the destruction of the tympanic membrane, the middle ear is available for examination.

• Audiometry. This is the definition of hearing acuity and auditory sensitivity in different ways: speech, computer, tonal.

• X-ray of the temporal bone. The study makes it possible to study in detail the structure of all structures of the ear, to identify inflammation, tumors, bone fractures.

• bacteriological analysis. The biological material from the ear canal is examined for the presence of infection, the resistance of the pathogen to antibacterial drugs is determined.

• General and biochemical analysis of blood. The results reflect the presence of infection, allergies, inflammation in the body.

• CT scan of the skull, MRI of the brain. Assign after traumatic brain injury, fracture of the skull, to clarify the localization of the tumor and foreign object.

If necessary, a consultation of other specialists is prescribed – a traumatologist, neurologist, oncologist, dentist, and additional studies.

Ear pain treatment

The choice of treatment tactics depends on the underlying disease, the severity of the symptoms. In the acute period of infectious and inflammatory diseases, rest, half-bed and bed rest, plenty of fluids, and a sparing diet are recommended for all patients.

First aid before diagnosis

Self-treatment is unacceptable, because due to the anatomical proximity of the ear, the brain and skull bones are quickly involved in the pathological process. With unbearable intense pain before a visit to the otolaryngologist, it is permissible to use drops with an anesthetic effect or painkillers in tablets.

Important! Drops are contraindicated if ear pain occurs after an injury.

Conservative treatment

As a symptomatic treatment to reduce the intensity of pain, different drugs are used:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, normalize body temperature.

• Ear drops. Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agents are prescribed. They well disinfect the mucous membranes, eliminate the sensation of a foreign body in the ear canal, relieve inflammation.

• Antiallergic drugs. They are necessary for infectious and inflammatory diseases, as they inhibit the production of mediators of inflammation and pain. These are first-line drugs for allergic diseases. Assign in the form of tablets and drops.

• Antibiotics. It is used for bacterial infections, and is not effective for treating complications of viral diseases. Take a course of 5-10 days. After cancellation, a control bacteriological culture is made to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. With candidiasis, antifungal drugs are needed.

• Vitamins and immunomodulators. They help to fill the deficiency of vitamins, micro- and macroelements, stimulate the protective mechanism, accelerate the recovery time.

If ear pain is a symptom of neurological diseases, then neurometabolic stimulants, metabolic drugs are needed. In the presence of external or otitis media, an ear toilet is performed. Cotton is wound around the probe and pus is collected from the ear canal, after which the passage becomes clean and dry.

In the process of treating infection, inflammation of the ear, throat and nose, physiotherapy methods are effective:

With otitis, sensorineural hearing loss at the stage of recovery, pneumomassage of the tympanic membrane is performed – the supply of pulses of different amplitudes and frequencies.

Surgical treatment

With purulent otitis media, myringotomy is performed to create conditions for the outflow of pus, eliminate inflammation and the consequences of a purulent process. In various ways (with a radio wave knife, a laser scalpel), a small incision is made in the eardrum, the purulent contents are removed, and washed with antibacterial drugs.

The ineffectiveness of drug therapy, chronic otitis media are indications for atticoanthrotomy. This is an opening of the mastoid process of the temporal bone and the epitympanic space in order to remove pathological tissues in the middle ear region.

The consequences of middle ear injuries are eliminated with the help of reconstructive operations:

• myringoplasty – restoration of the integrity of the tympanic membrane with a piece of skin that is taken behind the auricle;

• mastoidoplasty – overlapping of the defect of the mastoid process with a muscular-fascial flap, bone or cartilage tissue;

• tympanoplasty – closing the perforation hole with a thin skin flap.

In case of disorders and purulent processes in the inner ear, a number of operations are performed:

• decompression – drainage through the middle ear;

• laser destruction – destruction of vestibular receptors by laser pulses;

• labyrinthectomy – opening of the semicircular canals of the labyrinth.

Tumors, polyps and fistulas inside the ear are subject to surgical removal. When a boil is formed, it is also opened.

If the disease and ear injury are complicated by hearing loss, the patient is fitted with a hearing aid or an electronic system is installed in the cochlea of ​​the inner ear to stimulate the intact structures of the auditory nerve (cochlear implantation).

Prophylaxis

Since the leading cause of pain inside the ear is infectious and inflammatory diseases, the list of preventive measures includes measures to prevent the spread of infection and strengthen immunity:

• physical activity,

• fortified food,

• regular physical activity,

• alternation of work and rest,

• alcohol restriction.

It is also recommended to use bathing caps while swimming, properly perform the toilet of the ear, wear a hat in the cold season.

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Neuralgia of the ear node. What is Ear Neuralgia?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Neuralgia of the ear node is a disease of the ear vegetative ganglion, manifested by paroxysms of vegetalgia, capturing the parotid region and ear. During an attack, pain can radiate to the back of the head, lower jaw, neck, shoulder girdle, arm, and upper chest. Paroxysm is accompanied by hypersalivation, sometimes – clicks in the ear and its congestion. Hearing is not broken. Diagnosis is carried out by a neurologist, but includes a consultation with an otolaryngologist, dentist and other specialists, depending on the clinical situation. The treatment plan consists of drugs for the relief of painful paroxysms, vascular, decongestant, metabolic drugs, physiotherapy and reflexology. An important point is the elimination of the root cause of neuralgia.

• Causes
• Symptoms of ear node neuralgia
• Diagnosis of ear node neuralgia
• Treatment of ear node neuralgia
• Prices for treatment

General

The ear autonomic ganglion (ganglion) is an accumulation of intermediate neurons of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve pathways. The node receives sympathetic preganglionic fibers through the plexus of the middle meningeal artery, parasympathetic – from the branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve. The postganglionic fibers of the ear node are part of the ear-temporal nerve, which is a branch of the trigeminal nerve. They go to the ear gland and vessels of the temporal region, providing their autonomic innervation.

Neuralgia of the ear node is included in the group of vegetative ganglionitis of the head, which also includes neuralgia of the submandibular and sublingual nodes, ganglionitis of the ciliary node, ganglionitis of the pterygopalatine node and the upper cervical sympathetic node, cervical truncitis. Experts in the field of neurology have collected statistical data indicating that neuralgia of the ear ganglion is most common in middle-aged and young women.

Neuralgia of the ear node

Causes

Etiopathogenetically, neuralgia of the ear node is an irritative disease that develops reflexively in the presence of pathological autonomic impulses coming from chronic infectious foci or chronic processes in somatic organs. The most important pathology is localized in the same region as the ear node and has an infectious and inflammatory nature. These include diseases of the parotid gland (mumps, sialadenitis, stones), chronic suppurative otitis media, chronic tonsillitis, sinusitis (frontal sinusitis, sinusitis, ethmoiditis), dental diseases (chronic periodontitis, stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontitis).

Less common is neuralgia of the ear node, due to the presence of a distant focus of infection (pyelonephritis, urethritis, cystitis), a general infectious process (tuberculosis, syphilis, chronic sepsis), metabolic disorders due to endocrine pathology (hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus) or somatic disease (cirrhosis of the liver). , cholecystitis, chronic renal failure, chronic gastritis, gastroduodenitis, adnexitis).

Symptoms of ear node neuralgia

Neuralgia of the ear node is manifested by attacks of vegetalgia that occur in front of the opening of the external auditory canal, in the parotid region and in the ear on the side of the lesion. Intense burning or throbbing pain radiates to the lower jaw, behind the ear, to the back of the head, neck and shoulder girdle of the corresponding side. The reflex mechanism of pain irradiation leads to its spread to the upper chest and arm. To provoke a painful paroxysm can take hot food or drinks, hypothermia of the face, psycho-emotional overstrain, excessive physical exertion. The duration of an attack of vegetalgia, as a rule, is several minutes, but it can be an hour or more.

The dependence of the functioning of the autonomic nervous system on external factors (lighting, barometric pressure, temperature changes, air humidity, etc. ) determines the characteristic rhythm of vegetalgia – its occurrence mainly in the evening and at night, exacerbation in autumn and spring.

In some cases of neuralgia, the paroxysm of pain is accompanied by ear congestion or sensations of clicks in it. The latter is due to periodic reflex spasm of the muscles of the auditory tube. Often, during an attack, patients note a noticeable increase in salivation, while hypersalivation is not observed in the interictal period. Auditory function is not affected.

Diagnosis of ear node neuralgia

Often patients seek help from a dentist or an otolaryngologist, and from them they receive a referral for a consultation with a neurologist. The latter establishes the diagnosis on the basis of typical complaints, the presence of severe pain on palpation of the sclerotomy points of the ear-temporal, mental and mandibular nerves, the Richet point – the place where the ear node anastomoses with the mandibular nerve. The identification of hyperalgesia in the parotid region also speaks in favor of neuralgia. In a difficult diagnostic situation, they resort to a diagnostic novocaine or lidocaine blockade of the ear ganglion.

In the process of diagnosis, an important role is played by the determination of the etiology of the onset of neuralgia. For this purpose, a dental examination and ultrasound of the parotid salivary gland, an otolaryngological examination (audiometry, otoscopy, rhinoscopy, pharyngoscopy, radiography of the paranasal sinuses) are performed. If necessary, consultations of narrow specialists (urologist, gastroenterologist, gynecologist, endocrinologist, etc.) and additional examinations of somatic organs (gastroscopy, ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, ultrasound of the kidneys, examination of the level of thyroid hormones, etc.) are prescribed.

Differential diagnosis is carried out with otitis, eustachitis, trigeminal neuralgia, mumps, tumors, cysts and stones of the parotid gland.

Treatment of ear node neuralgia

Emergency care aimed at stopping the paroxysms of vegetalgia includes the use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs: metamizole sodium, acetylsalicylic acid, aminophenazone, therapeutic novocaine blockades. They are combined with ganglioblockers (benzogexonium, pachycarpine), antispasmodics (drotaverine, ganglefen), sedatives (motherwort, valerian, bromine preparations) and hypnotics (phenobarbital, barbamil, zopiclone). An additional analgesic effect is given by electrophoresis with novocaine or ultraphonophoresis with hydrocortisone on the ear node area.

Metabolic and vascular therapy is shown: vitamins gr. B, pentoxifylline, nicotinic acid. Antiallergic drugs (promethazine, chloropyramine, loratadine, desloratadine) are used to reduce swelling. With the predominance of signs of irritation of parasympathetic fibers in the clinic of neuralgia, anticholinergic drugs are prescribed: platifillin, diphenyltropine, etc.