An earache is a sharp, dull, or burning pain in one or both ears. This can be painful and may last for just a few hours or for days.
The eustachian (pronounce "you-stay-shun") tube drains fluid that is made in the middle ear. It runs from the middle part of each ear to the back of the throat. If the eustachian tube becomes blocked, fluid can build up. This may lead to pressure behind the eardrum or an ear infection. Adult ear pain is less likely to be from an ear infection and may be coming from another place, such as your teeth, the joint in your jaw (temporomandibular joint), or your throat. This is called "referred" pain.
Causes of earache may include:
Arthritis of the jaw
Short-term ear infection
Long-term ear infection
Ear injury from pressure changes (from high altitudes and other causes)
Object stuck in the ear or buildup of ear wax
Hole in the eardrum
Sinus infection
Sore throat
Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ)
Tooth infection
In a child or infant ear pain is more likely due to infection. Other causes may include:
Ear canal irritation from cotton-tipped swabs
Soap or shampoo staying in the ear
Your doctor or healthcare provider will examine the ear using an instrument called an otoscope. A healthy eardrum is pinkish gray in color and transparent. If an ear infection is present, the eardrum may be inflamed, swollen, or red. The doctor may also check the pressure caused by fluid in the middle ear using a pneumatic otoscope. This instrument blows a small amount of air at the eardrum, causing the eardrum to move back and forth. The eardrum will not move as readily if fluid is present inside the ear.
Another useful diagnostic tool for ear infections is tympanometry. This is a test that uses sound and air pressure to check for fluid in the middle ear (it cannot test hearing).
Some earaches go away on their own and do not need treatment. Over the counter painkillers such as Tylenol or Advil can help.
You should see your doctor if: the pain is persisting or is getting worse, have a fever, have a discharge from your ears or if it is a child under two who has the ear infection
Earache in Children
Use pain relievers. Follow all instructions on the label. If you give medicine to your baby, follow your doctor's advice about what amount to give. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 19 years of age. Pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (Advil, Aleve, and Motrin, for example) and acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) will help your child feel better. Giving your child something for pain before bedtime is especially important.
You may try applying warmth to the ear, which may help with pain. Use a warm washcloth. Encourage rest. Resting will help the body fight the infection. Arrange for quiet play activities. Don't use eardrops without a doctor's advice, especially if your child has tubes in their ears If your child isn't better after a few days of home treatment, call your doctor's office.
Care during air travel
If your child with an ear infection must take an airplane trip, talk with your doctor about how to help your child cope with ear pain during the trip.
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