Understanding Ear Pain Causes Symptoms & Treatments: How to Find Relief

Ear Pain Not Improving? Book With The Ear Nurses– Check Availability Here

Ear Pain Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments: Ear pain causes, symptoms, and treatment is a common discussion point as it can affect individuals of all ages. Whether it’s sharp, achey or persistent and dull, ear pain can significantly interfere with daily life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you take the right steps toward finding relief.

Symptoms of Ear Pain ?

  1. Ear Infections – Outer ear infections (otitis externa) and Middle ear infections (otitis media) are a common causes of discomfort, especially in children.
  2. Wax Buildup – Excess earwax can lead to discomfort, blockage, balance issues and even temporary hearing loss.
  3. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction – The tubes connecting the middle ear to the throat can become blocked due to colds, allergies, smoke or even pet fur. This can cause dulled hearing, discomfort and crackling or popping noises in the ear
  4. Swimmer’s Ear – Bacterial or fungal infections can cause sore or painful ears.
  5. TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorder – Jaw joint issues can cause referred pain in the ear.
  6. Injury or Trauma – Scratching the ear canal with your fingernail or inserting foreign objects can cause pain and irritation.
  7. Pressure Changes – Rapid altitude changes, such as during air travel, can create ear pain due to pressure imbalances.

Symptoms of Ear Pain

Depending on the cause, ear pain may be accompanied by:

  • A feeling of fullness or blockage
  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • Hearing loss or muffled sounds
  • Drainage from the ear
  • Dizziness or balance issues
  • Fever (especially with infections)
  • Soreness around the ear or jaw

How to Relieve Ear Pain

If you’re experiencing ear pain, here are some treatments:

At-Home Treatments

  • Warm Compress – Applying a warm cloth to the ear can reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers – Medications like Ibuprofen or Panadol can help ease discomfort. Take as directed.
  • Ear Drops – Depending on the cause, over-the-counter ear drops may provide relief.
  • Hydration & Steam – Staying hydrated and inhaling steam can help with middle ear pain related to congestion.

When to See a Professional

If your ear pain persists for more than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, hearing loss, or discharge, it’s time to see help from The Ear Nurses.

The Ear Nurses: Expert Ear Care

At The Ear Nurses, we are experts in professional ear health, including:

  • Earwax Removal – Gentle microsuction procedures to clear blockages.
  • Examination – Ear checks by your Ear Nurses can be carried out to determine if you have ear wax, infection or foreign objects stuck in your ears that requires cleaning.
  • Infection Treatment – Outer ear infection debris will be suctioned and removed. Then you will be referred back to your GP for antimicrobial ear drops.

Don’t let Ear Pain affect your ear health well-being.

📞 Call us: 1300 260 750
📍 Visit us at our 6 locations: Brighton, Epping, East Melbourne, Glen Waverley, Surrey Hills & Truganina.

Book Appointment with Ear Nurse

For more general information, see Healthdirect’s guide to ear ache.