Earaches

An earache is a sharp, dull, or burning pain in one or both ears. It can be caused by many factors, including infections, allergies, earwax buildup, changes in air pressure, and even tooth problems.

Ear infections are the most common cause of earaches. They occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, causing inflammation and fluid buildup. Other symptoms of an ear infection may include fever, ear drainage, and difficulty hearing.

Allergies can also cause earaches. When your body reacts to an allergen, such as pollen or dust, it can produce excess mucus and inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, which can lead to ear pain and pressure.

Earwax buildup can also cause earaches. Earwax protects the ear canal by trapping dirt and other particles and preventing them from entering the inner ear. But when too much earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal, causing pain and discomfort.

Changes in air pressure can cause earaches as well. This can happen when you’re flying in an airplane, driving up or down a mountain, or scuba diving. The rapid changes in pressure can cause the eardrum to stretch and become inflamed, leading to pain and pressure.

In some cases, an earache can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a ruptured eardrum or a tumor. It’s important to see a doctor if you experience severe ear pain, fever, or hearing loss, or if your earache lasts for more than a day or two.