Head Pain Behind the Ear: What to Know

A middle-ear infection can cause ear pain, pressure, reduced hearing, or fever; discomfort may be felt around or behind the ear. Earwax buildup can block the canal and affect hearing. A cold, sinusitis, or tonsillitis may send pain toward the ear through connected areas of the head and throat. Earache can also occur without an obvious ear problem, so the clinician may examine the ear, throat, nose, teeth, and neck.

Keep water and objects out of the ear, and do not insert cotton buds or drops unless advised. Rest, drink fluids, and use a suitable pain reliever only as directed for you. Note hearing change, discharge, fever, sore throat, dental symptoms, and whether movement of the jaw or neck affects pain. Arrange a review when pain persists or hearing is affected.

Seek prompt care for swelling or redness behind the ear, the ear appearing pushed forward, severe worsening pain, high fever, pus or blood from the ear, new facial weakness, severe dizziness, or sudden hearing loss. Emergency assessment is needed with confusion, a seizure, or severe headache with neck stiffness.

Does the ear, throat, sinus, jaw, or neck appear to be the source? Is the ear canal blocked or infected? Do I need treatment for infection or earwax, and which changes require urgent help?