Does your ear hurt? (Earache) - Causes and things you need to know

Most of us have had an earache, especially when we were kids, right? But it's also very common for adults to have one. The surprising thing is that not all earaches are caused by a problem in the ear. Sometimes, the ear can hurt because of an unrelated problem elsewhere in the body. So, to get rid of this pain, it's important to first find out exactly what's causing it.

What are the main causes of earache?

There can be a number of reasons for ear discomfort or pain. Let's look at the main ones.

1. Earwax

Simply put, it is a normal process for earwax to build up inside our ears and be removed on its own. But sometimes this process doesn't work properly, and the wax can build up inside the ear, gradually becoming hard and blocking the ear. Doctors call this condition 'impacted wax'. This can sometimes cause severe pain.

If the earwax is normally filled, there are ear drops that can be purchased at the pharmacy that soften the earwax. You can try using them. But if the earwax is hard and stuck, the best thing to do is see a doctor. Then he can safely remove the earwax without damaging the eardrum.

2. Changes in air pressure (Air Pressure)

Normally, our ears are very good at keeping the pressure on both sides of the eardrum equal. When we swallow something, we make a "popping" sound in our ears as part of this process. However, this balance can be lost during rapid pressure changes, such as when flying or riding in a fast elevator. This can cause earache and hearing loss. This is because the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the throat, is malfunctioning.

To avoid this situation on a plane, try these things:

• Chew gum, suck on a candy bar, or open your mouth and swallow frequently during takeoff and landing.
• Don't sleep while the plane is descending, stay awake.
• Take a deep breath, pinch your nose with two fingers, and try to blow air out of your nose slowly, without force.
• Avoid flying and diving when you have a cold, sinus infection, or allergies.

3. Swimmer's Ear

If you feel pain when you pull on your earlobe or when you press on the small piece of cartilage that covers your ear (tragus), you may have an infection of the outer ear called 'Swimmer's Ear'. This is called ``Otitis Externa'' in medical terms. This is caused by water getting into the ear, which can become trapped and cause bacteria to grow. This can cause the ear to become red, swollen, itchy, and pus to drain out. This is not a contagious disease. You can prevent this by keeping your ears dry during and after swimming. A doctor will often prescribe antibiotic ear drops for this.

4. Middle Ear Infection

There are many reasons why the tubes in our middle ear can become blocked. When they become blocked and become infected with fluid, doctors call it ``Otitis Media'' or middle ear infection. This is the most common cause of earaches. If your doctor thinks it's a bacterial infection, he or she will prescribe antibiotics. If the pain doesn't go away or comes back, be sure to tell your doctor. Because if it's not treated properly, the infection can spread and even damage your hearing.

Other causes of earache that are not related to the ear

Sometimes earaches aren't caused by any problem with the ear. Let's see what they are.

When should you see a doctor about an earache?

Usually, some earaches will subside within a day or two. However, in the following cases, you should definitely seek medical advice.

• If your pain is very severe .
• If the pain persists for several days.
• If you have a high fever or a severe sore throat along with a cough.
• If something like fluid, blood, or pus is draining from the ear.
• If a baby under 6 months old shows signs of an earache (frequent crying, ear rubbing, restlessness).
• If the pain is accompanied by a new rash .

In cases like this, it is very important to see a doctor to confirm whether it is a serious condition, such as a tumor or a severe infection.

Are there any home remedies?

Yes, before seeing a doctor, you can try a few small things to relieve the pain.

• Hot or cold compress: Soak a cloth in hot or ice water, wring it out well, and place it over the painful ear for a few minutes.
• Change your sleeping position: Sleep on the side that hurts. For example, if your left ear hurts, turn to your right side and sleep.
• Painkillers: You can take a painkiller such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen as directed by your doctor.
• Neck exercises: Sometimes, neck muscle tension can also increase the pain. Try simple exercises like slowly turning your head from side to side and raising and lowering your shoulders.