What should you know about a pounding headache and ear pain?

A Common Cold can block the nose and the pressure-equalising passage to the middle ear, causing pressure and referred head pain. Middle Ear Infection may bring earache, fever, reduced hearing or irritability. Earwax Buildup can muffle sound and create fullness, though it does not explain every headache. Sinusitis may cause facial pressure and congestion. Tonsillitis can send pain towards the ear because the throat and ear share nerve pathways. The quality, side, hearing change and fever help guide an examination.

Rest, drink fluids and use a warm or cool compress on the outer ear or forehead, whichever feels better. Do not put cotton buds, oil or unprescribed drops into the ear, especially if fluid is leaking or the eardrum may be damaged. Keep the ear dry while bathing. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief. Antibiotic Treatment is not needed for every earache; the cause should be assessed first. Ear Wax Removal should be performed safely rather than by digging into the canal.

Seek urgent help for sudden severe headache, new weakness, confusion, stiff neck, swelling behind the ear, severe dizziness, facial weakness or vision loss. Arrange prompt assessment for high fever, pus or blood from the ear, new hearing loss, severe pain, a head injury or symptoms that are worsening. Children, older adults and people with reduced immunity may need earlier advice.

Could the pain be from the ear, sinuses, throat or jaw? Is the eardrum intact? Do I need hearing assessment or treatment for infection? Is wax removal safe, and which pain relief fits my medicines and health conditions?