Ear pain
Pain in the ear can be a consequence of otologic disease (primary or otogenic otalgia), or can arise from pathologic processes and structures other than the ear (secondary or referred otalgia).
What is Ear pain?
Ear pain is a symptom that people may experience for many reasons. It can be related to infections, chronic conditions, injuries, medication effects, or other health changes. The presence of this symptom alone does not diagnose any condition.
If you have Ear pain that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other warning signs, contact a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible conditions associated with Ear pain
The following conditions have been associated with Ear pain. Only a health professional can determine the underlying cause.
Dural sinus malformation with arteriovenous shunt
Dural sinus malformation with arteriovenous shunt is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms an...
Eagle Syndrome
A condition in which an elongated styloid process or calcified ligament in the neck irritates nearby nerves, causing thr...
Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes fluid buildup.
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs.
Meningioma
Meningioma is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs.
Otitis Media
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes hearing loss.
SUNCT syndrome
SUNCT syndrome is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs.
Swimmer's Ear
An infection of the outer ear canal, often from water staying in the ear, causing itching, pain, and discharge.
Temporomandibular Disorder
A group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement, causing pain in the jaw, face, ...
Related symptoms
When to seek medical care
Seek urgent care if Ear pain is severe, sudden, or occurs with chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, severe weakness, or other serious symptoms.