How to treat ear pain

Pain may come from irritation in the ear canal, a plug of wax, pressure after a cold, or inflammation behind the eardrum. A Middle Ear Infection can cause aching, reduced hearing, fever, or fluid. Sinusitis and Tonsillitis may also send pain toward the ear. Earache describes the symptom; it does not identify the cause.

Keep water and objects out of the ear, and do not insert cotton buds or try to remove a deep blockage. A warm cloth against the outer ear may feel soothing. Ask a pharmacist which pain medicine suits your age, health conditions, and other medicines. Antibiotics are not suitable for every earache; they should be used only when a clinician recommends them. If wax is suspected, professional Ear Wax Removal may help.

Arrange prompt medical advice for severe or worsening pain, discharge, new hearing loss, dizziness, swelling around the ear, or fever. Seek urgent help if you become very unwell, develop facial weakness, or have trouble breathing or swallowing. Children, people with diabetes, and people with reduced immunity may need earlier assessment.

Ask whether the eardrum and ear canal look inflamed, whether wax is blocking the view, and whether pain from the throat, teeth, or sinuses could be referred to the ear. Confirm which pain relief is appropriate and what change should prompt follow-up.