When to See an ENT for Ear Pain

Ear pain can mean numerous things; it can be an external ache due to trauma, such as getting punched, and it can also be due to an internal issue like otitis media or tinnitus. Please note that ear pain is never normal, and if it’s accompanied by hearing loss, this may be permanent.

Ear pain can subside on its own in some cases without a doctor’s intervention. Two of the cases where this ear pain goes away without treatment are:

• Ear pain caused by jaw pain or a headache
• Ear pain from recurring cases of swimmer’s ear

If ear pain vanishes on its own, make sure to closely monitor your ears in case it returns, and in that case, contact an ENT for ear problems.

However, you may not be so lucky to be included in the two categories above. Your ear pain may be caused by one of the conditions listed below: 

Middle Ear Infection

An ear infection is one of the common causes of ear pain, and it occurs when fluid gets trapped in the middle ear. If the fluid is stuck in the ear canal for too long, it can become infected, resulting in an earache that won’t go away.

Ear pain caused by an ear infection is accompanied by a fever and somethings drainage from the area. 

Blockage of the Eustachian tube

Ear pain can be due to Eustachian tube blockage, and this is caused by allergies, colds, and sinus infections.

Air Pressure Changes (ear barotrauma)

You’ve probably experienced the feeling of your ears popping if you’re on an elevator or airplane. Normally, air pressure remains the same inside and outside the ear, but the eustachian tube can’t keep up when the pressure changes too quickly. 

If this is why your ear is aching, you can try to pop your ears by yawning or by plugging your nose and blowing. If these don’t work, put a warm, damp washcloth over your ear to help the pressure adjust. 

Earwax Buildup

Earwax occurs naturally, but too much can cause a blockage. This in turn creates pressure that can lead to ear pain. 

If your ears hurt, you should contact an ENT doctor to give you an ear exam. Our ENT office addresses all the problems mentioned above, so you are in great hands with our doctors!