Earache

Earaches are very common in children, as well as adults. Pain in the ear can be caused by a number of different conditions.

Many earaches are caused by infection. (Read about "Microorganisms") Infections can develop in different parts of the ear. (Read about "The Ear and Hearing") Depending on which part of the ear is infected, infections are called:

• Otitis externa - This is inflammation of the outer ear. This type of inflammation can develop if the ear canal is injured and then infected, or when moisture trapped in the ear canal leads to an infection. The condition we call swimmer's ear is an example of otitis externa. (Read about "Otitis Externa")
• Otitis media - This is inflammation of the middle ear and eardrum. Otitis media often develops in conjunction with respiratory infections such as sore throat or colds. (Read about "Sore Throat and Strep Throat" "The Common Cold") This condition is very common in babies and children, but can also happen to adults. (Read about "Otitis Media")

In addition to infections, some of the other common causes of earaches include:

• presence of a foreign object
• presence of ear wax
• ruptured eardrum (Read about "Ruptured Eardrum")
• toothache (Read about "Oral Health")
• sinusitis (Read about "Sinusitis and Rhinitis")
• tonsillitis (Read about "Tonsils and Adenoids")
• jaw problems, such as temporomandibular disorder or TMJ (Read about "Temporomandibular Disorder")
• certain types of cancers (Read about "Head and Neck Cancers")

An earache can also be accompanied by ringing in the ear (Read about "Tinnitus") and/or hearing loss (Read about "Hearing Loss")

Adults experiencing an earache should see their healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. In young children, pulling or tugging at the ear can indicate an earache. If you suspect that your child has an earache or ear infection, contact your doctor. If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be needed. (Read about "Antibiotics") Pain relievers can also help to provide some relief.

Some types of earaches can be prevented. You can reduce your risk of outer ear infections by not putting objects in the ear, and by drying your ears with a towel after bathing or swimming. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn against using cotton swabs in your ears. You can reduce your risk of middle ear infections by practicing good hygiene to avoid respiratory infections, and avoiding cigarettes and cigarette smoke. (Read about "Respiratory System" "Quit Smoking")