Ear pain

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Ear pain[edit | edit source]

Diagram of human ear anatomy, relevant to understanding ear pain.

Ear pain, medically known as otalgia, is a common condition characterized by a sensation of discomfort or acute pain in one or both ears. The pain can vary in intensity and can be a symptom of various underlying conditions.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Ear pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Otitis media (middle ear infection)
  • Otitis externa (external ear infection, also known as swimmer's ear)
  • Sinus infections
  • Changes in air pressure (barotrauma)
  • Earwax buildup
  • Foreign objects in the ear
  • Dental issues

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms accompanying ear pain may include:

  • Hearing loss
  • Dizziness
  • Fever
  • Drainage from the ear
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of ear pain typically involves:

  • Physical examination of the ear
  • Assessment of symptoms and medical history
  • Audiological tests, if hearing loss is a concern

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for ear pain depends on the underlying cause and may include:

  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections
  • Pain relievers
  • Warm compresses
  • Ear drops
  • Removal of foreign objects or earwax

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include:

  • Avoiding insertion of objects into the ear
  • Keeping ears dry and clean
  • Regular dental check-ups
  • Avoiding exposure to loud noises

External Links[edit | edit source]


Ear pain Resources
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