Earache is one of the most common reasons for children and adults to see a physician. Severe ear pain can impact daily activities and overall well-being. Even mild ear discomfort can be a nuisance and a sign of an underlying condition. At Valley ENT, our ear, nose, and throat specialists diagnose what’s causing your earache and recommend treatments based on the cause.
What causes ear pain?
Ear pain can occur from sources both within and outside the ear. Common causes we treat at Valley ENT include:
Ear infections: Infections are one of the most frequent causes of ear pain, especially in children. They can be middle or outer ear infections. Symptoms often include pain, fever, hearing difficulties, itching, and/or ear drainage.
Earwax buildup: Excessive earwax can block the ear canal, causing discomfort and pain. This condition, known as cerumen impaction, may result in muffled hearing and a sensation of fullness in the ear.
Eustachian tube dysfunction: The eustachian tube helps equalize pressure in the middle ear. When this tube becomes blocked or fails to function properly, it can lead to ear pain and pressure changes. This condition is often associated with allergies, colds, or sinus infections.
There are many other causes of ear pain, including trauma, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, barotrauma from sudden pressure changes from flying or diving, or referred pain from the throat caused by throat infections or even throat cancer.
An ENT doctor spends 4 years at college, 4 years at medical school, and then 5 to 7 years after that in a residency program specializing in otolaryngology — head and neck surgery. Our board-certified ENTs pass written and oral exams and participate in continuous education to maintain their certification. When you visit one of our Arizona locations, you can trust you're seeing one of the most qualified specialists in the region and that your care will be second to none.
How do you diagnose the cause of ear pain?
One of our ENT physicians examines the ear using an otoscope, which shines a light beam to help visualize the condition of the ear canal and eardrum. The doctor may also use a pneumatic otoscope to check the pressure caused by fluid in the middle ear. In some cases, additional tests such as audiometry tests, tympanometry, allergy testing, and ear imaging may be performed. In addition, due to the possibility of referred pain, a flexible laryngoscopy may be performed. This is a scope performed in the office to view inside the nasal cavities, as well as the back of the throat and larynx.
Treating Ear Pain
Earaches often go away without treatment. If an infection doesn’t cause the earache, you can use a non-aspirin pain reliever to relieve the symptoms. You may try applying warmth to the ear, which may help with pain. Schedule a doctor’s appointment if the pain persists or worsens, you have a fever, or you notice discharge from the ear.
Treatments for ear pain depend on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatments:
Medications: Antibiotics or antiviral medications are often prescribed to clear ear infections. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort. If allergies are a contributing factor, your doctor may recommend antihistamines or decongestants.
Earwax removal: If earwax buildup is causing pain, a healthcare provider can remove the excess wax using special tools. Over-the-counter ear drops can also soften earwax, making it easier to remove at home.
Eustachian tube exercises: For eustachian tube dysfunction, exercises like swallowing, yawning, or using a nasal spray can help open the eustachian tubes and relieve pressure. In some cases, your doctor may perform a procedure called balloon eustachian tuboplasty to open the tubes.
For some people, surgery may be necessary. Procedures like tympanostomy tube insertion can help drain fluid from the middle ear and reduce the risk of recurring infections.
Being prepared will help you get the most out of your appointment. Please bring a list of medications you're currently taking and any pertinent test results—such as labs or imaging—to your appointment. Additionally, let your provider know of any drug allergies or medical conditions you have or for which you are being treated and if you've had any prior surgical procedures.
Visit Our ENT Specialists
Our team of ear, nose, and throat specialists is committed to providing thorough, personalized care to treat the cause of your ear pain and improve your quality of life. If you or your child is experiencing persistent earaches and related symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan at one of our Arizona locations.