Throbbing pain behind the ear

An ear infection or trapped wax can cause ear pain, pressure, reduced hearing, or discharge. A cold or sinus inflammation may refer discomfort toward the ear. Jaw clenching, dental problems, and tight neck muscles can produce pain around or behind the ear, often worse with chewing or turning the head. Tender, swollen, or red skin behind the ear needs attention because the source may be outside the ear canal. Note fever, drainage, hearing change, dizziness, sore throat, dental pain, rash, or recent swimming.

Keep the ear dry and avoid cotton buds, fingers, or other objects in the canal. A warm compress over the surrounding area may be soothing if the skin is intact. Use pain relief only as directed on the label and consider whether jaw clenching or neck posture is aggravating the discomfort. Do not use leftover antibiotic drops or tablets. A clinician can examine the ear, throat, jaw, and nearby skin and decide whether ear-wax removal, monitoring, or treatment is appropriate.

Seek urgent care for swelling or redness behind the ear, an ear that appears pushed outward, severe worsening pain, high fever, severe dizziness, facial weakness, confusion, or a severe headache with neck stiffness. Arrange prompt review for ear discharge, new hearing loss, a painful rash or blisters, or symptoms after an injury. Make an appointment if pain lasts, repeatedly returns, or affects sleep or hearing.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the ear, jaw, throat, teeth, or neck, and whether an examination or hearing check is needed. Mention discharge, fever, swimming, recent respiratory illness, dental symptoms, skin changes, and any medicines already tried.