Ear Pain: Causes and Treatments for Ear Infections

Ear problems

Recently, while washing my hair, I accidentally got water in my left ear and forgot to dry it immediately.
After nearly a week, I started to feel some discomfort, so I went to see an otolaryngologist.
However, since I had a cold at the time, the doctor determined that the ear inflammation was caused by the cold.
After taking medication, the pain subsided for a while, but later I wasn't sure if it was due to the cold not fully resolving or the water exposure, as the sharp pain became more frequent than before.
Additionally, my right ear, which did not get wet, also started to feel some discomfort, but it is less severe and less frequent compared to the left ear.
At the beginning, I noticed that when I yawned, there was a particularly loud sound, which I wondered if it was the sound of the eardrum contracting; this still happens now.
I would appreciate it if you could take some time to address my concerns.
Thank you!

Lily, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/04

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the issues you mentioned may be due to the following two possibilities:
1) Otitis Media:
a) Acute Otitis Media: Often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (such as colds) and sinusitis.
In severe cases, there may be discharge of fluid or pus from the ear.
b) Chronic Otitis Media with acute exacerbation: This usually occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can be caused by unclean water or improper ear cleaning, leading to inflammation.
Treatment for mild cases may involve ear drops combined with oral medications (such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain relievers).
Severe cases may require hospitalization.
If hearing is affected, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
2) Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ): This condition affects the joint located in front of the ear and is often associated with ear pain.
It is commonly caused by poor bite habits and can be managed with medication and adjustments to biting habits.
3) Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: If symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun
Director, Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2018/12/04

More Info

Ear pain and discomfort can arise from various causes, and understanding these can help in finding appropriate treatments. Based on your description, it seems that your ear pain may be related to a combination of factors, including a possible ear infection and Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Causes of Ear Pain
1. Ear Infections: Ear infections can occur in the outer ear (otitis externa) or the middle ear (otitis media). In your case, since you mentioned that water entered your ear, it is possible that this led to an outer ear infection, especially if the ear canal became inflamed or infected due to moisture retention. Symptoms of ear infections often include pain, discharge, and sometimes fever.

2. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps equalize pressure. If you have a cold or allergies, the Eustachian tube can become blocked, leading to pressure changes in the ear, which can cause pain and discomfort. The popping or crackling sounds you hear when yawning may indicate that the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly.

3. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the ear can be referred from other areas, such as the throat or jaw. Conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from the ear.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Pain Frequency and Intensity: If your left ear pain is more frequent and intense than the right, it may indicate a localized issue, such as an infection or inflammation.

- Hearing Changes: If you notice changes in your hearing, such as muffled sounds or increased sensitivity, this could suggest fluid buildup or pressure changes in the ear.

- Discharge: Any discharge from the ear, especially if it is yellow or has an odor, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Treatment Options
1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain. If an infection is suspected, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

2. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear can provide relief from pain and help reduce inflammation.

3. Nasal Decongestants: If your ear pain is related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, using a nasal decongestant or saline nasal spray may help open the Eustachian tube and relieve pressure.

4. Avoiding Water Exposure: Until the pain resolves, it’s advisable to keep your ears dry. You can use earplugs while showering or swimming to prevent water from entering the ear canal.

5. Follow-Up Care: If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to follow up with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including hearing tests or imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

When to Seek Immediate Help
If you experience severe pain, fever, or discharge from the ear, or if your hearing significantly worsens, you should seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate treatment.

In summary, your ear pain could be due to an infection or Eustachian tube dysfunction, possibly exacerbated by your recent cold. Monitoring your symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care will be crucial in managing your condition effectively.

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