Earaches may occur in one or both ears and can range from mild to very painful. They more often affect young children, but they can occur in all ages. Pain may be felt as a dull, sharp, or burning sensation that comes and goes or is persistent.
Typically, earaches are mild and clear up on their own within a few days. However, they can be serious and require medical attention as permanent hearing loss is a complication of more serious earaches.
Causes
There are several possible causes for an earache. Some of the most common causes include:
- Ear infection
- Damage to the inside of the ear (punctured eardrum)
- A buildup of earwax
- Throat infection
- Otitis media (buildup of fluid inside the ear)
When to See a Doctor
If you or your child has a fever of 104F or higher, you should seek medical attention. For a baby with a fever greater than 101F, medical attention is needed immediately. You should also seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe pain that stops suddenly. This can mean your eardrum has ruptured.
If your earache worsens or does not get better in 24 to 48 hours, see your doctor. You should also be aware of these other symptoms. If they occur, make an appointment with your doctor:
- Severe ear pain
- Dizziness
- Bad headache
- Swelling around the ear
- Drooping of the facial muscles
- Blood or pus draining from the ear
