Ear pain can be caused due to a problem in the ear or as referred pain from another body part. While treatment depends on the cause of the earache, it is important to visit an ENT specialist to get the right help.
Ear pain, also known as earache, sore ear and/or otalgia, is a common complaint, especially in young children. While it can be painful, earache doesn’t usually indicate anything serious. Notably, earache can either be caused by a problem in your ear or experienced as referred pain from another body part. Read more to learn about the best ways to deal with ear pain. Also, consulting a specialist like Dr Sanjeev Gupta, the best ENT specialist in Bhubaneswar, is recommended for personalised advice.
What is Earache?
Commonly caused by an ear infection, ear pain is a dull, sharp, or burning pain in one or both ears. This pain can last for either a short period of time or can be ongoing.
Causes of Earache
Earache is commonly caused by an ear infection of the middle ear or the outer ear. Here are the other common causes:
- Changes in air pressure
- Ear or eardrum injury
- Earwax build-up
- Presence of an object or a foreign body in the ear
- Referred pain from an infection near the ear (like sinusitis or tonsillitis), dental issues (such as teeth grinding or a dental infection) and/or problems with the jaw joint (known as temporomandibular joint)
When to See a Doctor?
It is important to visit an ENT specialist like Dr Sanjeev Gupta when:
- Ear pain persists or gets worse.
- Fluid is leaking from the ear.
- There is swelling around the ear.
- Ear pain with fever that does not improve within 24 to 48 hours.
- Your hearing is getting worse.
- You have diabetes or a lowered immune system.
- A child is less than 2 years old and displays new symptoms like headache, dizziness, swelling around the ear, or weakness in facial muscles.
Treatment for Ear Pain
While treatment for earache depends on the cause, here are some ways to deal with certain situations.
- In case of wax build-up, ear drops are suggested to soften the wax. Or, a professional can be visited to clean the ear canal.
- When it is a middle ear infection, the pain is likely to get better within 7 days on its own without the need for antibiotics. During this period, pain relief medicines can be used.
- In case of an outer ear infection, it is vital to visit a specialist who will prescribe antibiotic ear drops that may contain other medicines like steroids.
- If something is stuck inside your ear, always seek professional help to get it removed.
- To ease the pain and pressure of an ear infection, chewing may help.
Besides, here are some common ways to deal with Earache:
- Keep a warm flannel, cold pack or cold wet washcloth on the outer ear.
- Resting in an upright position can reduce pressure in the middle ear.
- Over-the-counter ear drops can help if the eardrum has not ruptured.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers can also ease pain, but do consult a doctor before giving these to a child or a pregnant woman.
- Take 2 or more pillows while sleeping.
How to Prevent Earache?
Let’s delve deep to know the ways that may help prevent earache.
- Avoid smoking near children as second-hand smoke is a major cause of ear infections in children.
- Avoid putting any object in the ear.
- Dry the ears after bathing or swimming.
- Don’t use things and/or indulge in activities that trigger allergies.
- Don’t use earbuds to remove earwax as it can be pushed deeper that can lead to injuries and/or infections.
All in all, it is vital to get the right treatment for earache in time. If you are looking for a reputable specialist to get the correct guidance for easing ear pain, then consult Dr Sanjeev Gupta, the best ENT specialist in Bhubaneswar.
