Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Ear pain

Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025

What is Ear pain?
Symptoms of Ear pain
- Sharp or dull pain in or around the ear
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Fluid or pus draining from the ear
- Fever or headaches (in cases of infection)
What causes Ear pain?
- Ear infections (otitis media or otitis externa), which can cause inflammation and fluid buildup
- Eustachian tube dysfunction, which leads to pressure changes in the ear
- Earwax buildup, causing a blockage
- Injury or trauma to the ear
- Sinus infections or colds, which can cause referred pain in the ear
- Teeth or jaw issues, like tooth infections or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
Risk factors for Ear pain
- Frequent ear infections, especially in children
- Exposure to loud noises, which can lead to ear injury
- Using earbuds or earphones at high volumes
- Cold or sinus infections, which can affect the ear
- Traveling by plane, which can cause pressure changes in the ear
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How is Ear pain diagnosed?
- Perform an ear exam to check for signs of infection, blockage, or injury
- Ask about your medical history, including recent colds or sinus issues
- Use a otoscope to look inside the ear for signs of inflammation or fluid buildup
- Recommend additional tests or imaging if needed for underlying causes
How is Ear pain treated?
- Antibiotics or antifungals for infections
- Ear drops to relieve pain and inflammation
- Warm compresses for soothing ear pain
- Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, for general relief
- Ear cleaning to remove excess wax
Medications for Ear pain
Can Ear pain be prevented?
- Protecting your ears from loud noises with earplugs
- Avoiding putting objects like cotton swabs in the ear
- Treating sinus infections or colds promptly to avoid ear complications
- Keeping ears dry to prevent infections, especially if you're prone to swimmer's ear
Managing Ear pain at home
- Apply a warm compress to the affected ear for relief
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Avoid getting water in the ear while it heals
- Rest in an elevated position to reduce pressure and discomfort
When should you seek help for Ear pain?
- The pain is severe, persistent, or worsening
- You experience fever, drainage, or blood from the ear
- There is significant hearing loss or muffled hearing
- The pain follows an injury or trauma to the ear
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*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.