Earache

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

An earache, or ear pain, is a common complaint and can affect one or both ears. Ear pain may range from mild to severe and can result from a variety of underlying conditions. While earaches are most common in children, they can occur at any age and may signal an issue that requires medical attention.



At Allergy & ENT Associates, our specialists evaluate the underlying cause of ear pain to provide targeted treatment and lasting relief.

What an Earache Can Affect

Earaches may affect daily comfort and function and can be associated with:


  • Pain in one or both ears


  • Pressure or fullness in the ear


  • Temporary hearing changes


  • Balance discomfort or dizziness



  • Symptoms related to infection or inflammation
     

Because ear pain can stem from several different sources, proper diagnosis is essential.

What Causes Earaches

Ear pain can result from many conditions, including infection, poor Eustachian tube function, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. Additional causes of earaches may include:


  • Ear trauma or a perforated eardrum


  • Sinus infections


  • Sudden changes in pressure


  • Excessive earwax buildup


  • Sore throat


  • Shampoo or water trapped in the ear


  • Tooth infection


  • Arthritis of the jaw


  • A foreign object in the ear
     

Identifying the cause of an earache is key to determining the most effective treatment.

Symptoms of an Earache

Ear pain may be dull, sharp, or burning and can be constant or intermittent. Symptoms vary depending on the cause but may include:


  • Redness or swelling


  • Fever


  • Fullness or pressure in the ear


  • Itching


  • Ear drainage


  • Decreased hearing


  • Tinnitus (ringing in one or both ears)
     

Seek medical attention if you experience severe ear pain, dizziness, headache, swelling, facial muscle weakness, or discharge of blood or pus from the ear. If pain does not improve within 24 to 48 hours, worsens, or suddenly decreases, evaluation is recommended, as a sudden reduction in pain may indicate a ruptured eardrum.

Treatment Options for Earaches

Because earaches have many potential causes, treatment depends on identifying and addressing the underlying issue. Treating the cause often relieves ear pain.


In the meantime, at-home measures may help reduce discomfort, including:


  • Applying a cold, wet washcloth to the ear for at least 20 minutes


  • Lying on the side with the unaffected ear closest to the ground


  • Sitting upright to reduce ear pressure


  • Chewing to help relieve pressure



  • Using over-the-counter pain relievers
     

Eardrops may be used unless a perforated eardrum is suspected.

Preventing Earaches

Steps that may help reduce the risk of earaches include:


  • Avoid inserting objects into the ears


  • Dry ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming


  • Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke


  • Reduce exposure to allergy triggers such as pollen and dust



Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I see a doctor for an earache?

    You should seek medical attention if ear pain lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, dizziness, swelling, drainage, or facial weakness.

  • Can earaches go away on their own?

    Some earaches resolve without treatment, especially those caused by pressure changes or mild irritation. However, persistent or severe ear pain should be evaluated to rule out infection or injury.

  • Is ear pain always caused by an ear infection?

    No. Ear pain can originate from the jaw, sinuses, throat, teeth, or pressure changes, which is why proper evaluation is important.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.