How to Treat a Severe Earache: An Emergency Guide for Adults

September 21, 2023

Severe earaches can be an intense, painful experience that disrupts your life. While most adult earaches result from common conditions like ear infections or sinus problems, severe cases require immediate attention and proper treatment.

 

Continue reading to learn about the treatment options and the best time to seek medical help. 

Causes of Severe Earaches

Identifying the potential cause of a severe earache before attempting any treatment is necessary. Some of the major reasons are:

 

●    Ear Infections: Bacterial or viral infections are the most common cause of earaches in children and adults.

●    Swimmer's Ear: Swimmer's ear is an outer ear canal infection caused by water that gets trapped in the ear canal and allows bacteria to grow.

●    Barotrauma: This ear injury can occur when there is a sudden change in air pressure because of activities like flying, scuba diving, or driving at high altitudes.

●    Trauma: Earaches can also happen due to trauma to the ear, like a blow to the head or a foreign object in the ear.

●    Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation in the ear canal, which can lead to pain.


How to Treat a Severe Earache

When dealing with a severe earache, you probably want to try anything to get relief. Here are some steps you can take:


1.  Apply a Warm Compress

A warm compress can relieve ear pain caused by inflammation or fluid buildup. Dip a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and gently apply it to the affected ear for about 15 minutes. The heat helps to improve blood circulation and may provide relief from the pain.


2.  Use OTC Ear Drops

Over-the-counter ear drops can effectively treat mild earaches caused by earwax blockages. These drops can soften the wax, making it easier for the body to expel it naturally. If the pain persists, discontinue it and consult a healthcare professional.


3.  Avoid Inserting Objects

To relieve pain, avoid inserting objects such as cotton swabs or hairpins into the ear canal. By doing this, the earwax may be forced deeper inside the ear canal, creating more problems and possibly harming the ear canal.


4.  Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help with earaches related to sinus congestion. Hydration keeps mucus thin and allows it to drain more quickly, reducing pressure in the ears.


5.  Steam Inhalation

For earaches related to sinusitis, inhaling steam can help clear the nasal passages and relieve pressure in the ears. Boil water, pour it into a bowl, and breathe in the steam by leaning over the bowl with a towel over your head.


Recognizing an Emergency Earache

While you can manage earaches at home with over-the-counter medications and home remedies, some symptoms require medical attention. Seek medical help if:

 

●    The pain does not improve with home treatment.

●    You have a fever of 101°F or higher.

●    You have drainage from the ear that is yellow or green.

●    You have hearing loss in the affected ear.

●    You have other symptoms that concern you.

 

 

If you or a loved one are experiencing a severe earache or related symptoms, don't hesitate to contact ENT Medical and Surgical Group. Our experienced ear, nose, and throat specialists will provide top-notch care for all your ear-related concerns. Don't let an earache disrupt your life; take the first step towards relief by contacting us!


Vertigo Dizziness And BPPV Brain Pain Stroke
December 22, 2025
Feeling dizzy? Learn common causes of dizziness, when to see a doctor, and how ENT specialists diagnose and treat balance disorders. Expert advice from ENT Medical and Surgical Group.
woman having an ear pain in one ear
December 19, 2025
Hearing loss can be a distressing experience, especially when it occurs suddenly and affects only one ear. Sudden hearing loss in one ear, is a condition that requires immediate attention and understanding. In this blog post, we will explore the risk factors and possible causes of sudden hearing loss in one ear and discuss the importance of seeking medical help.
woman suffering earache at home
December 10, 2025
Suffering from an earache? Learn common causes, safe home remedies, and warning signs that mean it’s time to see an ENT. Expert advice from ENT specialists.
pediatric-ent-checking-the-tonsils-of-a -girl
November 25, 2025
Wondering if your sore throat is contagious tonsillitis? Learn how to spot the signs, understand how it spreads, and discover effective steps to protect yourself and your family from infection.
woman-having-a-nosebleed
November 5, 2025
Got a bloody nose? Learn the correct first-aid steps to quickly stop a nosebleed from ENT specialists. Discover common causes, when to worry, and expert prevention tips.
unhappy-young-man-experiencing-sinus-problems
October 16, 2025
Can't tell a sinus infection from a cold? Learn the key differences in mucus color, pain, and duration. Know when it's time to call a doctor in CT
Mother checking her baby ear's wax
October 1, 2025
Worried about your baby's earwax? Learn how to spot normal earwax vs. dangerous warning signs like infection, blockage, and pain. Know when to call the doctor.
patient-consultation-on-sinusitis-at-hospital
September 16, 2025
Suffering from sinus pressure and congestion? Discover the signs of sinusitis, effective home remedies, and when to see a doctor in this comprehensive guide from ENT specialists.
Woman in soundproof booth taking hearing test. Audiologist in blue scrubs observes.
September 5, 2025
Struggling to hear in noisy places? Asking "what?" too often? You might need a hearing test. Discover the 5 key signs and why early detection is crucial for your brain health and relationships. Schedule a painless test in CT today.
Boy with blue goggles in a pool, looking surprised, holding onto the edge.
August 20, 2025
Learn how to prevent and treat swimmer’s ear with expert tips on causes, symptoms, and treatments—so you can enjoy the water pain-free.