What causes earache?

If you have any of the following signs seek immediate emergency care: severe shortness of breath, changes in consciousness or fainting, facial weakness, heavy bleeding, high fever with severe pain, sudden major hearing loss, or progressive neurological symptoms.

• Severe shortness of breath or breathing difficulty
• Loss of consciousness, fainting, or severe dizziness
• Sudden major hearing loss or facial weakness
• High fever with marked clinical deterioration
• Heavy ear drainage or uncontrolled bleeding

Possible underlying causes are varied and include infections, blockages in the ear canal, sinus or upper respiratory problems, jaw joint disorders causing referred pain, pressure-related injury, or dental sources. This list is for information and does not substitute for a medical diagnosis.

• Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
• Ear Canal Infection (Otitis Externa)
• Ear blockage (e.g., earwax or foreign body)
• Sinusitis or upper respiratory infection causing referred pain
• Temporomandibular Joint problems (TMJ)

For an initial assessment you can usually see Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) or Family Medicine. A family physician can perform the first evaluation and refer as needed. If a dental or jaw source is suspected, Oral, Maxillofacial and Craniofacial Surgery or a dentist may be appropriate. For recurrent or systemic infections, Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology may be consulted.

• Otorhinolaryngology (ENT): general ear examination and diagnosis
• Family Medicine: initial evaluation and referral
• Oral, Maxillofacial and Craniofacial Surgery / Dentistry: dental or jaw-related issues
• Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology: recurrent or complex infections

During the consultation your clinician will ask about the duration and pattern of the pain, whether there is ear drainage or fever, any hearing changes, recent flying or diving, dental or jaw complaints, and prior similar episodes. These details guide the diagnosis and any tests.

• How long has the pain lasted?
• Is the pain constant or intermittent?
• Is there ear drainage, fever, or hearing change?
• Have you recently flown or been diving?
• Any dental or jaw problems?

These general supportive measures are for information only and are not a substitute for medical care. Seek evaluation if symptoms are severe or worsen.

• Do not insert objects into the ear
• Stay hydrated and rest
• If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48–72 hours, seek medical evaluation
• Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and directed treatment

These suggestions are informational and do not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment.