Ear pain and sore throat: what to know

The throat and middle ear are linked by a pressure-equalising passage, so swelling from a Common Cold, Tonsillitis or another throat infection can cause aching felt in the ear. Pain may be referred from the throat even when the ear itself looks normal.

Strep Throat, Influenza or COVID-19 can also cause sore throat with broader illness. Acid Reflux and Allergic Rhinitis may irritate the throat without causing a typical fever. A clinician may inspect the throat, ears and neck to separate these possibilities.

Sip fluids, choose soft foods if swallowing hurts, and rest your voice. Warm drinks or a salt-water gargle may soothe the throat if safe for you. Use a suitable pain reliever according to its label, considering pregnancy, allergies, age and other medicines.

Avoid smoking and do not share cups or utensils while an infectious cause is possible. Do not start leftover antibiotics: treatment depends on the diagnosis, and many sore throats improve without them.

Seek emergency help if you cannot breathe, swallow saliva or open your mouth normally, or if the voice becomes markedly muffled. Get prompt care for rapidly increasing one-sided throat or ear pain, neck swelling, severe dehydration, confusion, facial weakness or a high temperature with serious illness. Arrange review for persistent symptoms, ear discharge or new hearing loss.

Ask whether the pain is referred from the throat, whether testing for Strep Throat or another infection is needed, and which symptom changes should bring you back for review.