If your ear is painful, what should you do?

Earache may result from a Middle Ear Infection, trapped Earwax Buildup, or irritation of the ear canal. Congestion from a Common Cold or Sinusitis can create pressure around the ear, while throat inflammation such as Tonsillitis may cause pain felt near the ear. A clinician may ask about fever, hearing change, discharge, recent swimming, dental symptoms, and whether pain worsens when the outer ear is touched.

Follow the label for a suitable pain reliever, taking account of allergies, pregnancy, stomach problems, kidney disease, and other medicines. Keep the ear dry and do not put cotton buds, oil, or unprescribed drops into it. Do not try to remove a firmly stuck object. If wax is the likely cause, ask about Ear Wax Removal rather than probing the canal. Antibiotic Treatment is useful for selected infections, not every earache, so do not use leftover antibiotics.

Arrange prompt assessment for severe or worsening pain, fever, fluid or pus from the ear, new hearing loss, dizziness, swelling behind the ear, or symptoms after an injury or loud noise. Seek emergency care for facial weakness, confusion, severe headache, or a stiff neck. A young child who is unusually drowsy, difficult to settle, or not drinking needs prompt review.

Ask which part of the ear is affected, whether the eardrum can be seen, whether wax or infection is present, and which treatment is appropriate. Ask when hearing should return and which changes should prompt another examination.