The sources of ear pain can be:
- Firstly, ear injury
- Secondly, inflammation
- Also by Infection
- Excess wax build up
Earache and ear pain are common. It occurs often in young children under the age of 16. Glue Ear is the most common cause affecting most children at some point. This is caused by mucous in the middle ear not draining down the eustachian tube properly, it backs up and fills the middle ear cavity stopping the 3 middle ear bones from vibrating properly.
Ear infection is also a very common cause. However most cases improve on their own after a few days, if not then an appointment with the doctor will be necessary to get anti-biotics. Sometimes the infection is caused by fungus and this will need anti-fungal drops to treat it rather than anti-biotics. Usually a thorough examination by a doctor or audiologist can differentiate the type of infection, occasionally a culture may be required to determine the exact type of infection.
Excess wax build up is another VERY common cause of ear pain. If the wax does not come out of the ear naturally then it can start to build up, This build up can then start pressure on the nerves or on the eardrum and can become very uncomfortable. Microsuction is the safest method of wax removal and you should seek professional advice before attempting any home remedies.
Inflammation through trauma will cause ear pain. The structure of the outer ear is mainly cartilage and can withstand a reasonable amount of damage but can swell and this pressure will cause pain. Cauliflower ear, common amongst rugby players is caused by regular trauma to the soft cartilage part of the outer ear.
If you are experiencing ear pain, and it is persistent, please contact us for a consultation.