How TMJ And Ear Pain Are Related And Treated

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Did you know that not all ear pain results from an infection? Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can result in discomfort in the area. The TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull; it acts as a sliding hinge that assists whenever you speak, chew, and swallow. Learn more about TMJ and ear pain disorders, how to differentiate this sensation from other types, why it occurs, and how to find relief.

What is The TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the bone that forms the side of the skull (temporal bone) and the lower jawbone (mandible), which is near your ear. This joint enables you to move your jaw forward, backward, and side-to-side. The main signs of TMJ disorder are a painful jaw and limited movement in the area.

TMJ Disorders

Although the causes of TMJ disorders are often unclear, discomfort in this joint can be caused by an injury to the jaw, arthritis, teeth grinding, excessive gum chewing, or a misaligned bite. There are three main types of TMJ disorders:

• Myofascial pain: This is the most common type of TMJ disorder. It is marked by deep, aching pain in the muscles of the joint.
• Internal derangement of the joint: This is associated with a dislocated joint or trauma to the jaw.
• Degenerative disease: Arthritis is a type of degenerative joint disorder that can affect the TMJ.

TMJ Pain Characteristics

TMJ pain may be a dull, ongoing irritation or a sharp, searing pain. This discomfort may be more apparent when you move your jaw to talk, chew, swallow, or yawn. In addition to experiencing ear and jaw pain, you might also feel soreness along the side of your head, neck, temple, cheek, face, lower jaw, and teeth. Other common symptoms of TMJ also include:

• A clicking/popping sound when opening the mouth
• Locking of the joint
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Ringing sound in the ear

Remember to consult with your doctor if your aching ear is companied by any of these symptoms.

Why TMJ Ear Pain Occurs

An aching ear is a common symptom for people with a TMJ disorder. Because the TMJ is near the auditory canal, pain and inflammation in this joint can affect the ear. A ringing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus, is often a part of TMJ ear pain. An ENT specialist can examine your hearing and eardrum to determine if your earache is related to the TMJ.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment for disorders of the TMJ depends on the cause and severity. If you are experiencing mild pain, your doctor may recommend some of these self-care remedies to reduce soreness and tension in the joint:

• Eat soft-foods
• Try relaxation techniques
• Do TMJ stretches and exercises
• Avoid chewing gum
• Avoid clenching or tensing your jaw
• Apply moist heat to the area

Anti-inflammatory medication and muscle relaxants can also help to relieve tenderness. A mouthguard may be a treatment option if your TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding; this will prevent damage to the joint. Orthodontic appliances are a great way to correct the upper and lower teeth, as misalignment can result in problems with the temporomandibular joint.

Finding the cause of your ear pain is important because it will lead to getting the correct care. If your earache is a sign of TMJ disorder, the good news is that you can reduce pain and discomfort with a few lifestyle changes. Incorporate breathing exercises to assist with relaxation, which can ease tension on the joint. Speak with your dentist or orthodontist if your TMJ pain is related to an incorrect bite.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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What Does Ear Pain From TMJ Feel Like?

Home » What Does Ear Pain Caused by TMJ Feel Like?

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Table of Contents:

How do TMJ disorders cause ear pain?
How do I know if my ear pain is from TMJ?
What does ear pain from TMJ feel like?
How long does TMJ ear pain last?

TMJ disorder is a condition characterized by dysfunction of the jaw joints, resulting in pain and other symptoms such as crepitus (clicking or popping sound). TMJ disorder is often associated with ear pain as the temporomandibular joints are connected to the masseter muscles, which run from the rear part of the cheek to the lower jaw. There are several different types of TMJ disorders, and some types tend to cause ear pain more often than others.

How do TMJ disorders cause ear pain?

TMJ disorders can cause ear pain by placing extra stress on the muscles involved in jaw function, but also from inflammation and swelling spreading from another area to the ears. The muscles involved in the functions of the jaw include the masseter, the temporalis, the lateral pterygoid muscle and the medial pterygoid muscle. All of these muscles are fundamental for the jaw’s proper functioning; any stress placed on any one of these muscles can cause facial pain or ear pain. The muscles most associated with ear pain include the masseter and the temporalis muscles, which are located above (temporalis) and below (masseter) of the ear.

How do I know if my ear pain is from TMJ?

Ear pain is a common symptom and can have a number of different causes, including TMJ disorder. One of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder is ear pain as the jaw joints can become dislocated or the muscles in the ear can spasm due to dysfunction of this joint. Some people experience ear pain that is not related to a TMJ disorder but is caused by another condition, such as a middle ear infection or sinus pain. It is important to see a dentist when experiencing ear pain to determine its cause and the best course of treatment.

What does ear pain from TMJ feel like?

Ear pain caused by a TMJ disorder might be a dull, ongoing irritation or it could be a sharp, searing pain, depending on its cause and the affected tissues. The pain may worsen with jaw movement, although this is not always the case. Inflammation and swelling due to TMJ disorder can spread to the ear, causing ear pain and discomfort. Additionally, straining the muscles connected to the TMJ, such as the masseter and temporalis, can result in ear pain as well as tension headaches and pain behind the eyes.

How long does TMJ ear pain last?

Each individual will have their own causes and symptoms of TMJ disorder, so it is impossible to predict how long the pain will last as well as how severe the pain will be. There are several factors that play a role in the duration of ear pain, including how long the pain has already been present. Other factors include individual physiology, overall health, the treatments received, and the pain tolerance of the individual. It is also important to note that in times of stress or illness, or even during weather changes, TMJ disorder symptoms can flare up, prolonging their total duration. If ear pain from TMJ disorder lasts longer than a week or interferes with the ability to perform everyday activities, it should be addressed by a qualified dentist as soon as possible in order to restore health and live a good quality of life.

If you are experiencing ear pain from TMJ disorder, come to Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders for knowledgeable and personalized care.

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Why the ear can break and what to do about it

What can happen if something hurts in the ear? Find out the causes and symptoms of vertebrogenic pain, inflammation of the auricle and other diseases, as well as how to treat them by reading the article on our website.

Unbearable pain in the ear can cause a lot of discomfort. Possible causes of common ear health problems such as congestion, pain, itching can sometimes be concluded in the condition of the ear. You need to know what causes earaches so that you can take this into account when looking for your long-term healthy life.

One common cause of ear breakage is exposure to moisture. The pain caused by water can be realized in various ways, including through the flow of cold water into the auricle. In this case, swelling of the auditory canal can disrupt the sound description, which leads to great pain. You should contact your doctor at the stage of increasing symptoms to prevent chronic health problems.

In addition, ear pain can be caused by various factors, such as hereditary disorders, congestion in the ear, psychological stress or infections. If you are experiencing ear pain, do not delay visiting your doctor. A professional medical diagnosis can help you relieve your symptoms and avoid possible complications.

Why ears hurt and how to avoid them

Ear pain can occur for various reasons. This may be due to metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, nervous disorders, an allergic reaction, or even improper use of headphones.

To prevent ear diseases, you need to observe hygiene, do not abuse listening to music through headphones, do not try to clean your ears with sharp objects and monitor the condition of your teeth.

If you have a predisposition to ear diseases, keep an eye on your condition. If you have the first symptoms of pain or discomfort, consult a doctor to avoid complications and start timely treatment.

• Keep your ears clean
• Do not overuse headphones
• Do not try to clean your ears with sharp objects
• Keep your teeth healthy
• Seek medical attention at the first sign of pain or discomfort

Remember that pre-prophylaxis can save you time and money that would otherwise be spent on treating and restoring the health of your ears.

Anatomy of the ear and its functions

The ear is a complex organ that consists of three main parts: the outer, middle and inner ear. Each of these parts performs its own unique function, allowing a person to hear and navigate in space.

Outer ear consists of the auricle and external auditory meatus. It plays an important role in our hearing by capturing sound waves and directing them deep into the ear. In addition, the auricle serves as protection for the middle ear.

The middle ear is located behind the eardrum and includes three bones – hammer, anvil and stepladder. They transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear, where they are converted into nerve impulses, which are then transmitted to the brain.

The inner ear includes the semicircular canals, which help the person maintain balance. It is also the part of the ear that converts sound vibrations into nerve impulses.

Each of these components has its own unique function that allows a person to fully hear and navigate in space. Therefore, any disturbance in the structure of the ear can lead to problems with hearing and coordination.

Why ear pain occurs

Ear pain is one of the most common reasons for visiting a doctor. It can be caused by many factors, including infection, trauma, ear structure abnormalities, and certain medical conditions.

Acute otitis media is the most common cause of ear pain. It is associated with inflammation of the middle ear, resulting in swelling and acute pain.

Noise overload – Constant exposure to noise at work or in everyday life can also lead to pain in the pinna.

Infection of the outer ear – in this case, the pain is especially acute when touching the ear or when chewing. It can be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.

A punctured eardrum is a serious injury that occurs when a head or ear injury occurs. The feeling of pain in this case is quite intense, but it can gradually decrease over time.

In any case, pain in the ears is a serious enough symptom that should not be ignored and should be addressed to a specialist as soon as possible.

Ear disorders

Osteomyelitis of the ear is a serious infectious disease that can lead to hearing loss and other dangerous complications. It occurs when an infection enters the bone in the ear, which is usually associated with an injury to the pinna, middle ear, or head.

Acute otitis media is a middle ear disease that occurs when fluid builds up in the ear and causes inflammation. It usually happens after a cold, SARS, or the flu, but it can be caused by other conditions as well.

Chronic otitis media is a form of otitis media that lasts more than 3 months. This usually happens when acute otitis media is not treated correctly or recurs several times.

• Other ear diseases may include, but are not limited to:
  • Inflammation of the external auditory canal (otitis media)
  • Damage to the eardrum
  • Eczema on the pinna
  • Wax deposits in the pinna

If you notice hearing loss, ear pain or other ear symptoms, see your doctor. Find out what your ear condition is and what you can do to treat it.

Acute otitis media

Acute inflammation of the middle ear is a disease that occurs when a congestive or inflammatory process occurs in the middle ear cavity. Ear pain, hearing loss, fever, and headache may be symptoms of acute otitis media.

Acute otitis media can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. This condition can occur due to inflammation of the tonsils, the flu, a cold, or another illness that can lead to an infection in the middle ear.

Treatment for acute otitis media depends on the cause of the disease and may include antibiotics, pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and otitis media. If you are experiencing severe ear pain or other symptoms of acute otitis media, see your doctor for evaluation and treatment.

• Symptoms of acute otitis media may include:
• ear pain;
• hearing loss;
• fever;
• headache;
• severe pain when chewing or opening the mouth.

Acute otitis media can be quite painful and uncomfortable, but with timely treatment, pain and other symptoms can be quickly resolved. Be attentive to your health and consult a doctor at the first sign of illness.

Chronic inflammation of the middle ear

Chronic inflammation of the middle ear is a long-term inflammatory disease of the middle ear that can lead to various complications.

In chronic otitis media, there is usually a constant presence of secretion, swelling and sometimes pathological lesions in the ear. This leads to significant discomfort, pain and reduced quality of life.

Chronic otitis media can be caused by improperly treated acute inflammation, ear anatomy, genetic factors, and external influences such as hypothermia, trauma, and infections.

Chronic otolaryngitis should be treated by an otolaryngologist. Comprehensive treatment is carried out, including the use of medications, physiotherapy, and in severe cases, surgery may be required.

• Signs of chronic inflammation of the middle ear are:
  1. Persistent secretion in the ear;
  2. Nausea, dizziness;
  3. Hearing impairment;
  4. Pressure in the ear;
  5. Pain.

It is important to contact an otolaryngologist at the first signs of illness in order to start timely treatment and avoid possible complications.

Difficulty conducting sound

Difficulty conducting sound affects the hearing aid and can manifest itself as impaired perception of sound waves, as well as their distortion. This can be caused by various reasons, such as an ear infection, a broken eardrum, or dry wax in the ear canal.

In some cases, difficulty in conducting sound may be due to age-related changes. As we age, the ear may lose its ability to conduct sound completely, which can lead to hearing loss. This is especially true for people over 60 years of age.

If you experience difficulty in conducting sound, then you need to contact a specialist – an otorhinolaryngologist. He will conduct a thorough examination and determine the cause of the problem. Depending on this, various treatments will be suggested, such as medication, hearing aids, or surgery.

Tympanic membrane rupture

Tympanic membrane rupture is a serious injury that can occur as a result of trauma, infection, or prolonged exposure to high-pitched sounds. When the eardrum ruptures, a person may experience severe ear pain, hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and nausea.

In the event of a ruptured eardrum, seek medical attention. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling and pain, but they should not come into direct contact with the pinna. It is also important to avoid introducing any objects into the ear so as not to damage the organ being treated.

The doctor may prescribe medicines to reduce pain and prevent possible infections. Some cases of a ruptured eardrum require surgery, but it usually heals on its own within a few weeks.

To avoid future eardrum rupture, avoid exposure to high-pitched sounds, protect your ears from injury, and do not attempt to clean your ears yourself. If you play sports, then you should use protective helmets. It is also not recommended to use nasal drops that can penetrate the ear.

Ménière’s disease

Ménière’s disease is an unpleasant inner ear disorder that can cause aches, ringing in the ears and imbalance. This is due to a disturbance of the fluid inside the ear.

The ear consists of three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. The inner ear contains the balance organs that control the balance of the body. When an inner ear disorder occurs, it results in Meniere’s disease.

The symptoms of Meniere’s disease may vary depending on the degree of the disease. However, typical symptoms include:

• Spinning dizziness
• Weightlessness
• Loss of balance
• Ringing in the ears
• Miscellaneous sounds such as tinnitus
• Stinging in the ears or numbness in the head 900 22

Treating Meniere’s disease can be quite difficult. First you need to determine what is the source of the problem in order to help fix it. Further attempts are made to improve balance and reduce the symptoms of the disease. In the case of acute attacks of vertigo, medications may be prescribed so as not to suffer much during attacks.

Although Ménière’s disease is quite unpleasant, in most cases, with treatment and symptom control, patients can lead a full life.

Inner ear disorder

Inner ear disorder is a serious condition that manifests as ear strain and pain and hearing loss.

Damage to the integrity of the inner ear can be caused by various injuries, infections, inflammatory processes, and some chronic diseases.

Inner ear symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, tinnitus and hearing loss. If you notice these symptoms, see your doctor. You should not postpone going to a specialist, as the disease can progress, and in the worst case, it can lead to complete hearing loss.

The treatment of an inner ear disorder depends on the cause of the disorder. In some cases, surgery may be required. Otherwise, treatment may include medication, regular medical check-ups, and the use of hearing aids.

In general, inner ear rupture is a serious condition that can have a profound impact on quality of life. But, with the right treatment and contacting doctors on time, you can successfully fight this disease and return to your usual lifestyle.

Diseases of the eyes and teeth that cause pain in the ear

The ear can hurt not only due to diseases of the ear, but also due to problems with the eyes or teeth. Some diseases of the eyes and teeth can cause reflex pain in the ear, which closely resembles the pain associated with ear diseases.

One of these diseases is dental disease, when caries, pulpitis or periodontitis lead to damage to the nerve, which is located near the ear. This can cause sharp pain in the ear, which can be aggravated by chewing or contact with a toothbrush. Dental disease treatment usually requires prosthetics or nerve treatment.

Eye problems can also cause ear pain. For example, with glaucoma, an eye disease associated with increased intraocular pressure, pain can spread to the ears. This is because the nerves responsible for vision and hearing pass through the same part of the brain. Treatment for glaucoma focuses on lowering intraocular pressure and redirecting some of the fluid the eye produces through another drainage system.

In any case, if you experience persistent ear pain, you should see a doctor. Only an experienced doctor will be able to determine the true cause of the pain and choose the best way to treat it.

Mastoid cell osteoma

Mastoid cell osteoma is a tumor that forms in the mastoid process of the temporal bone located behind the ear.

Symptoms of osteoma may include hearing loss, dizziness, persistent ear and head pain, and fluid from the ear. Hearing loss may be gradual and may not be noticeable until it is very severe.

To diagnose a mastoid cell osteoma, your doctor may do an X-ray or a CT scan. Treatment may include surgical removal of the tumor and medication to improve the health of the ear.

Seeing a doctor early if mastoid cell osteoma is suspected can help prevent dangerous complications such as infection and brain damage.

Ear Injury

Ear Injury is a mechanical injury to the ear. This can happen in the event of a fall, impact or pressure drop. In some cases, an ear injury can lead to fracture of internal bones, damage to the eardrum, and the ear may begin to bleed.

Ear injury symptoms:

• ear pain;
• similar to tinnitus;
• hearing loss, and in severe cases, complete hearing loss;
• blood or other fluids from the ear;
• dizziness, nausea, vomiting.

If you have symptoms of an ear injury, you should see a doctor. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Moderate to minor ear injuries may require simple treatment for the noise or tinnitus, while severe injuries may require surgery.

Effective treatments for ear pain

Ear pain can cause a lot of discomfort and affect a person’s general well-being. Ear pain can be caused by infections, trauma, allergic reactions, or pressure inside the ear canal. Treatment of ear pain depends on the cause of the disease and may include the use of drugs and folk methods.

One of the most common ear pain medications is analgin, which can quickly relieve pain. However, if the cause of the pain is an infection, antibiotics may be needed. It is important not to forget about following the instructions for the use of drugs and be sure to consult a doctor before starting treatment.

In addition to drugs, an effective method of treating pain in the ear can be the use of traditional methods. For example, heat salt in a pan and wrap it in gauze, then apply it to a sore ear. Such a compress can relieve pain and warm up the ear. You can also use drops from plant juices such as calendula, chamomile or aloe. However, before using folk methods, you need to make sure that they do not cause allergic reactions and are safe for health.

It is important to remember that if ear pain persists or recurs, seek medical attention. Only he will be able to establish the exact cause of the pain and prescribe the correct treatment, which will help to quickly get rid of discomfort.

How to prevent earaches

Earaches can be caused by a variety of causes, but can be prevented by following a few simple rules:

• Clean your ears properly. Use special products or plain warm water to remove the wax. Do not use sharp objects to clean the ears, as they may damage the eardrum.
• Avoid hypothermia. Cold water, drafts and other factors can cause ear pain. When visiting the pool, use special headphones.
• Do not try to treat severe pain yourself. Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain or long-term discomfort in your ear.
• Avoid getting into the ears with sharp objects. Doing so may damage the pinna and cerumen.
• Maintain good hygiene. Avoid ear contact with dirty surfaces as this can lead to infection and pain.

Ear canal hygiene

One of the most important aspects of ear health is proper ear canal hygiene. Every day, a wax plug forms inside the ear, which must be removed in order to avoid various problems, such as itching, pain, hearing loss and others.

Do not clean the ear with sharp objects such as toothpicks, matches, bumps or even ear sticks. This can damage the eardrum or cause even more ear problems. To remove the sulfur plug, you can use special tools that can be purchased at the pharmacy.

It is good to do ear hygiene daily, especially if you live in a city where the air is often polluted or if you are prone to wax plugs.

• The following recommendations should be kept in mind:
• Never try to remove the wax plug with a sharp object;
• Use special wax removers;
• Do not pour water on your ears, especially if you have a history of ear problems;
• Dry your ears after swimming or swimming to avoid getting moisture in your ears;
• Do not pinch, scratch or massage the ears too hard.

Avoid using hearing aids, headphones or ear plugs as they can cause wax plugs and other hearing problems. If you are experiencing ear pain, see a doctor for professional advice.

The importance of proper nutrition for ear health

Most people think that when it comes to ear health, it’s all about loud noises and personal protective equipment. However, proper nutrition also plays an important role in maintaining ear health.

Vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, zinc and vitamin C are essential for healthy ear function. Magnesium, found in spinach, nuts, and beans, helps keep the ear healthy by improving circulation and reducing the risk of hearing loss. Zinc, which is found in white mushrooms, buckwheat and shellfish, helps ear tissues to recover and regenerate. Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, has anti-inflammatory properties and helps fight infections that can affect hearing.

Appropriate nutrition can not only help maintain hearing, but also prevent the development of diseases such as disorders of the vestibular apparatus, diseases of the inner ear, etc. Therefore, it is important to include foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals in your diet.

• Some useful foods for the ears:
• Oily fish, tuna, salmon
• Nuts, seeds, sesame seeds
• Spinach, broccoli, carrots

Product Magnesium content Zinc content keeping vitamin C

9 0357 50 mg

Q&A:

Why can my ear break when I open my mouth?

Opening the mouth can damage the muscles, ligaments and tendons that are close to the ear. This can lead to pain and even breakage. We advise you to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Can the ear break with a cold?

Yes, with colds and other respiratory conditions, swelling of the nasopharynx can occur, which can lead to painful sensations in the ear, including withdrawal. We advise you to consult a doctor and take the recommended medications.

What should I do if my ear hurts after descending into the depths during a dive?

Breakage of the ear after descent into depth may be a sign of barotrauma. It is necessary to immediately rise to the surface and consult a doctor. Do not use drops or other medications until you have consulted a specialist.

What precautions should I take to avoid breaking my ear while flying in an airplane?

While flying in an airplane, pressure changes, which can cause ear injury. To prevent withdrawal, it is recommended to reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, chew gum or suck on candy, air your nose before takeoff and landing, swallow, and take recommended medications.

What should I do if my ear breaks while using headphones?

Headphones may cause pain, including breaking, when used. The headphones may not fit your ear or are not properly fitted. It is recommended to use headphones with soft ear cushions, properly adjust them and reduce the sound volume.

Can ear breakage be related to allergies?

Yes, an allergic reaction can cause swelling of the Eustachian tube, which can lead to pain in the ear, including breaking. It is recommended to take antihistamines and see a doctor if symptoms persist.

What are the causes of frequent ear breaks?

Frequent ear breaks may be due to infections, allergies, barotrauma, headphone use, trauma, or structural abnormalities of the ear. It is recommended to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Importance of a complete ear diagnosis for pain

Ear pain is a fairly common problem faced by many people. However, the causes of ear diseases are different, and in each case a complete diagnosis is required.

Even if the sore ear is not a symptom of a serious condition, missing a diagnosis can lead to additional problems in the future. A few days of illness without sufficient treatment can lead to complications or the development of more serious diseases.

Ear testing usually includes examination of the ear canal, hearing tests, and other procedures necessary to recognize problems in the ear. The specialist usually recommends treatment only after a complete diagnosis.

Important to remember! If you experience ear pain, do not try to treat yourself. It is better to contact a specialist who will help to carry out a complete diagnosis and prescribe treatment, as well as give the necessary recommendations to avoid possible complications.

• Do not self-medicate for ear pain.
• Be sure to have a complete ear examination.
• Start treatment only after consultation with a specialist.

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February 10, 2023 | Questions and answers

How should you clean your (or your child’s) ears?

The inner part of the ear is self-cleaning. Clean only the outer part of the ear with a soft cloth or cotton. Do not insert any object or pour any liquid into your ears unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

What is earwax? Should it be removed?

Earwax is a normal secretion produced in the ear. It helps keep dirt, hair, and debris from entering the ear. It protects the ear and keeps it clean. It is usually NOT NECESSARY to remove earwax if
it does not cause hearing loss. Ear wax should be removed by a qualified professional.

When should earwax be removed?

Sometimes when wax builds up in the ear and becomes hard, it may need to be removed. Earwax should ONLY be removed by a qualified medical professional or physician.

Can cotton swabs be used to remove earwax?

Do NOT put cotton swabs in your ears. They can push the wax further into the ear canal and damage the eardrum. Sometimes cotton wool can remain in the ear and cause an infection.

What Causes Ear Pain?

Ear pain is usually caused by:

• hardened earwax;
• infection of the ear canal or tympanic membrane;
• ear injury.

What should be done for ear pain?

See a doctor or health care professional who can examine your ears.

DO NOT treat ear pain with home remedies (such as hot or cold oil) or medicines that have not been prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Can I take any antibiotic for ear pain or ear discharge?

Only take medication prescribed by your doctor after your examination. If you experience ear pain, ear discharge, or any hearing problems, contact your doctor or healthcare professional.

What causes liquid or purulent discharge from the ears? Could it be dangerous?

Discharge from the ears is most often caused by an infection. Do not ignore liquid or purulent discharge from the ear. Ear infections are mostly treated with medications or, in some cases, surgery.

If left untreated, they can lead to serious (and sometimes life-threatening) complications.

In the event of discharge from the ears, call your doctor or healthcare professional as soon as possible.

What should I do if my ears feel itchy or if an insect gets into my ear?

If you have severe itching or if you have a foreign body or insect in your ear, you should see a doctor. When using cotton swabs, you can damage the ear canal or eardrum.

What to do if water gets into the ear?

In most cases, the water comes out on its own after a while. If water does not come out, or if this happens frequently, contact your doctor or healthcare professional. This can happen when the ear canal is clogged with earwax, which can delay
water inside. It is possible that a doctor or healthcare professional will need to remove the wax.

How can ear and hearing problems be avoided?

With proper ear care, most ear and hearing problems can be prevented.

Should:

• use earplugs in noisy environments;
• regular hearing test;
• Call a doctor or health care professional if you experience ear pain, ear discharge, or any hearing problems;
• wear hearing aids regularly if you are advised to do so.