What should you know about ear infection and headache?

An ear infection can accompany headache, but the combination should be assessed when pain is severe or unusual. Pressure around the ear, fever, poor sleep, or inflammation can contribute to head pain, while congestion may affect the ear and sinuses together.

A [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/) or [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) can block the passage that equalises pressure behind the eardrum. [Chronic Sinusitis](/conditions/chronic-sinusitis/) may cause facial pressure and headache alongside ear fullness. Fever, cough, loss of smell, or body aches can occur with [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/). Headache can also result from dehydration, heat exposure, or muscle tension, so an ear symptom does not establish the cause of head pain.

Rest, drink fluids, and use a suitable pain reliever only as directed on its label or by a clinician. Keep water out of a painful or draining ear and avoid inserting cotton buds. Note temperature, discharge, hearing change, dizziness, and whether pain worsens with movement. A clinician can examine the ear and decide whether treatment for infection is needed.

Seek prompt care for worsening pain, fever, new hearing loss, repeated vomiting, or swelling behind the ear. Emergency assessment is needed for a sudden severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, weakness, fainting, or a seizure. In hot conditions, marked thirst, weakness, dizziness, or reduced urination may indicate [Heat Exhaustion](/conditions/heat-exhaustion/) or [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/).

Ask whether the eardrum and ear canal look infected, whether congestion or sinus inflammation is contributing, and which pain medicines are suitable for you. Ask what changes should prompt review and whether hearing should be checked after symptoms settle.