Earaches, also known as otalgia, are one of the most common reasons for trips to the doctor, especially among children. Persistent or recurring earaches can be bothersome, interrupt sleep, cause fussiness and more. Let’s take a look at a few common causes of earaches and what you can do to manage them.
Common Causes of Earache
There are many possible causes for earache, but four common ones include:
- Airplane ear. Airplane ear, medically referred to as ear barotrauma, occurs when there is a pressure imbalance between the inner ear and the external environment. This condition is commonly experienced during rapid elevation changes, such as airplane takeoffs and landings.
- Middle ear infection. Ear infections occur when viruses or bacteria infect the middle ear, causing fluid buildup and pain. These infections are prevalent in children, with most experiencing at least one by age three.
- Swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear is a bacterial or fungal outer ear canal infection. It commonly occurs after water becomes trapped in the ear, creating a moist environment ideal for infection. In addition to pain, symptoms may include redness, itching and fluid drainage.
- Foreign objects in the ear. Children love to stick things up their noses and in their ears. While you may be able to stop them from tossing their dinner in their ear, most of the time, accidents happen. When a small object, like a pea or bead, gets stuck in the ear canal, the resulting pressure or damage can lead to ear pain.
What Can You Do About Ear Pain?
Treating ear pain varies by the underlying cause. For example, if you are suffering from airplane ear, chewing gum or yawning can help release pressure. In most cases, however, consulting an ENT specialist is the best path forward. An ENT specialist will conduct a physical exam and ask about your symptom length and type. Following an exam, they will treat the underlying cause. Treatments may include but are not limited to:
- Prescribing antibiotics or antifungals
- Placing ear tubes
- Removing objects from the ear
- Cleaning the ear
In cases where infections are recurring, your provider may recommend you wear earplugs when playing in the water at Alice Keith Park, avoid high-bacteria waters and place preventative ear tubes.
Contact Southeast Texas Ear, Nose & Throat, LLP today to address your or your child’s ear pain with one of our specialists.
