If you’re dealing with an earache, you’re probably eager to find relief. If your symptoms persist longer than 24 hours, it’s important to seek treatment from a medical professional. At ENT NOW – Des Peres, our providers can provide treatment so the discomfort does not keep you from your favorite activities.
Why Do I Have an Earache?
Causes of earaches include:
- Infection of the ear, sinus or tooth
- Poor Eustachian tube function
- Temporomandibular joint disorders
- Ear trauma
- Ruptured eardrum
- Earwax buildup
- A foreign object in the ear
What Are the Symptoms of an Earache?
The pain in your ear may feel dull, sharp or burning. It can be constant or intermittent.
Additional symptoms may include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Fever
- Fullness or pressure
- Itching
- Drainage
- Decreased hearing
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
How Can I Relieve Ear Pain?
If your earache is mild, there are several at-home options for relief, such as using a cold or warm compress, using over-the-counter pain medication and chewing on something to help lessen pressure.
When Should I See a Doctor?
You might be able to treat your ear pain at home, but you should seek medical attention if you experience severe ear pain, dizziness, swelling, discharge of blood or pus, weakness in facial muscles or pain that lasts more than 24 hours.
How Does an ENT Treat Ear Pain?
Our provider will begin by asking about your symptoms and how they’re impacting your life to get a better understanding of your situation.
Treating the cause should relieve ear pain in most situations, so specific treatment will depend on the underlying condition. Your doctor will perform a physical examination using an otoscope to visualize your outer ear canal and eardrum. Depending on the cause of your ache, antibiotics might be recommended.
Our team will help you take charge of your hearing health and find solutions for your ear pain. Get in touch today to find relief.