Earache (Otalgia)
Earache is pain in or around the ear that may be caused by ear infections, fluid buildup, wax blockage, or referred pain from the throat or teeth. It can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing pain.
🚨 Seek Urgent Care
Get immediate medical help if you have:
- Severe ear pain that worsens quickly.
- High fever with earache.
- Pus or blood coming from the ear.
- Sudden hearing loss or dizziness.
- Swelling behind the ear.
📞 Consult a Doctor
Seek medical advice if:
- Ear pain lasts more than 2–3 days.
- Mild hearing difficulty persists.
- Repeated ear infections occur.
- Pain is associated with sore throat or sinus issues.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Sharp or throbbing ear pain | Middle ear infection |
| Blocked ear sensation | Earwax buildup |
| Hearing difficulty | Fluid in middle ear |
| Ear pain with sore throat | Referred pain from throat infection |
| Itching and irritation | Outer ear infection |
Causes by Category
Otitis media: Middle ear infection.
Otitis externa: Outer ear infection (swimmer’s ear).
Sinus infections: Can cause referred ear pain.
Earwax blockage: Common cause of discomfort and hearing loss.
Foreign body: Objects trapped in the ear canal.
Pressure changes: Air travel or diving (barotrauma).
Dental infection: Tooth pain radiating to ear.
Throat infection: Tonsillitis or pharyngitis.
TMJ disorder: Jaw joint inflammation.
Diagnostic Procedures
Otoscopy
Visual examination of ear canal and eardrum.
Hearing Test
Assesses hearing loss or impairment.
Tympanometry
Evaluates middle ear pressure and fluid.
Throat Examination
Checks for referred infection sources.
