What to Do for an Earache
What to Do for an Earache
That familiar, throbbing pain in your ear can be miserable. Whether it’s a sharp stab or a constant ache, an earache makes it hard to focus on anything else.
The specialists at ENT Medical and Surgical Group know how disruptive ear pain can be. The good news is that not every earache requires a trip to the doctor. This guide explains the common causes, safe home remedies, and when to seek professional care.
Common Causes of Earache
Earaches don't always mean an ear infection. Pain can originate from different places:
- Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): A classic infection behind the eardrum, often following a cold. Fluid builds up, creating pressure and pain. This is very common among children.
- Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa): An infection of the ear canal, often caused by water retention that breeds bacteria. Pain is typically worsened by pulling on the outer ear.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Blockage of the tube connecting your middle ear to your throat, often due to allergies or a cold. This causes a feeling of fullness, popping, and pain from pressure buildup.
- Foreign Bodies Lodged Within the Ear Canal: An object lodged in the ear canal, which is especially common in young children
- Referred Pain: Sometimes, the pain isn't from your ear at all. Problems like a sore throat, TMJ (jaw joint) issues, or tooth infections can cause pain that feels like it's in your ear.
Identifying the underlying cause is key to choosing the right treatment.
Safe At-Home Remedies to Try
For mild to moderate pain, especially from pressure or congestion, these ENT-approved remedies may help relieve discomfort.
- Apply a Warm Compress
Hold a warm (not hot) washcloth or heating pad against the affected ear for 10-20 minutes. The heat can help reduce pain and soothe inflammation. - Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are very effective at managing ear pain and reducing inflammation. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label. - Stay Upright
If you’re lying down, fluid and pressure can build up in the middle ear. Propping yourself up with extra pillows can help promote drainage and relieve pressure. - Chew Gum
If your earache is due to pressure changes (like on an airplane) or Eustachian tube dysfunction, the act of chewing or yawning can help open the tubes and equalize pressure. - Try Over-the-Counter Ear Drops (With Caution)
For pain specifically from swimmer's ear, OTC drops designed to dry out the ear canal can help.
Important: Only use over-the-counter drops designed to dry out the ear canal if you’re sure the eardrum is intact. Avoid all drops if there’s drainage or suspected eardrum perforation.
What to Avoid
- Do NOT stick anything in your ear: This includes cotton swabs, bobby pins, or your finger. You risk pushing wax deeper, scratching the ear canal, or even perforating the eardrum.
- Do NOT use ear candles: Health authorities like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advise against them. They are ineffective for removing earwax and pose a serious risk of injury, including burns to the face and ear canal, eardrum perforation, and even fire.
When to See a Doctor: The Red Flags
Most earaches improve within a few days, but don’t ignore these red flags — prompt care from an ENT can prevent complications and relieve pain quickly.
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with OTC pain relievers
- Fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Swelling, redness, or pain around the ear
- Fluid, pus, or blood draining from the ear (This could indicate a ruptured eardrum).
- Symptoms that last more than 2-3 days or get worse
- Hearing loss or a sudden change in hearing
For babies and young children who can't verbalize their pain, look for signs like tugging at the ear, excessive crying, fussiness, trouble sleeping, and fever.
If home care isn’t enough, ENT Medical and Surgical Group has ear specialists who can provide a precise diagnosis and treatment. Call us to schedule an appointment with one of our experts.
