EAR ACHE

Struggling with Ear Ache?

Ear ache can be a very uncomfortable and distressing experience.

We offer expert advice on how to manage ear ache. We take a detailed medical history and if you have a video otoscope you can even send us images of your ear to inspect. We can write a report with our recommendations if required. At this time we are unable to prescribe medication.

An aching or painful ear can be caused from a number of things ranging from ear infection, ear trauma, impacted ear wax / foreign body, or referred pain.

What Might Cause Ear Ache?

Ear Wax / Foreign Body

Ear wax production is a natural function for a healthy ear. However, on occasion the natural cleaning process of the ear is interrupted which results in a build up which eventually blocks the ear. Foreign bodies are more common in children. For example, they may put a pea or tissue in their ear which can get stuck. In adults, it is usually a result of a cotton bud breaking off in the ear.

Ear Infection

Ear infections are very common, particularly in young children.

You don’t always need to see a doctor and will often clear itself up after 3-5 days.

Symptoms can include:

Pain inside the ear, a high temperature, being sick, a lack of energy, difficulty hearing, discharging ear, feeling of pressuure, itching, or scaly skin

Ear Trauma

Ear ache caused by trauma is a result of physical damage to part of the ear.

An example of trauma may be from using a cotton bud to remove wax or from a head injury.

If you suspect ear trauma it is important you seek an immediate medical opinion.

Referred Pain

If you get ear ache as a result of an issue in another part of the body, this is called referred pain.

An example of referred pain is from tooth ache. An abcess or sensitive tooth can result in ear ache and sometimes even Tinnitus.