Ear Pain and Throat Issues: When to See an ENT Specialist

Ear pain with heat and itching, feeling moist, and sometimes making sounds when turning the head?

Hello doctor, I started experiencing some ear pain and a sore throat around January 23rd.
At that time, I was wearing headphones frequently for class, and since the discomfort subsided after a short rest, I didn't pay much attention to it.
A few days later, the sore throat worsened, and I visited a Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic.
The doctor examined me and said that my throat was not particularly red or swollen, and prescribed me medication for five days.
The sore throat has since improved.

However, last night, on January 5th, while yawning or turning my head, I suddenly heard a strange sound in my ear, accompanied by a sensation of pressure in my ear.
After that, I felt significant pain in my ear, and today it still feels warm, swollen, itchy, and painful, with a slightly moist sensation.
Sometimes, when I turn my head, my ear makes sounds.

Could you please advise if there is a connection between my sore throat and ear pain? What might be the issue with my ear? Will it heal on its own, or should I see an otolaryngologist? Thank you.

teresa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/06

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, regarding your issue, it could possibly be external otitis, tonsillitis, temporomandibular joint disorder, Eustachian tube dysfunction, or sensorineural hearing loss, among others.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist.
Wishing you peace and good health.

Reply Date: 2021/01/06

More Info

Ear pain and throat issues can often be interrelated due to the anatomical and physiological connections between the ears, nose, and throat. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, plays a crucial role in equalizing pressure and draining fluid from the ear. When there is an infection or inflammation in the throat, such as in cases of pharyngitis or tonsillitis, it can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction, resulting in ear pain or discomfort.

Based on your description, it seems that your symptoms began with throat pain, which later progressed to ear pain. The fact that you experienced a strange sound in your ear, along with a sensation of fullness or pressure, suggests that there may be an underlying issue affecting the Eustachian tube or the middle ear. This could be due to fluid accumulation, inflammation, or even a possible ear infection (otitis media).

The symptoms of ear pain, a feeling of fullness, and unusual sounds in the ear can indicate several potential conditions:
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This occurs when the Eustachian tube fails to open properly, leading to pressure imbalances in the ear. It can be caused by allergies, colds, or sinus infections.

2. Otitis Media: This is an infection of the middle ear, which can occur following a respiratory infection. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, and sometimes drainage from the ear.

3. External Ear Canal Issues: Conditions like swimmer's ear (otitis externa) can cause pain and discomfort in the ear canal, often exacerbated by moisture or irritation.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain from the throat can be referred to the ear due to shared nerve pathways.

Given that your symptoms have persisted and you are experiencing significant discomfort, it is advisable to see an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist. An ENT can perform a thorough examination, which may include an otoscopic examination to check for signs of infection, fluid in the middle ear, or other abnormalities. They may also evaluate your throat to rule out any infections that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In terms of whether the ear will heal on its own, it depends on the underlying cause. Some mild cases of Eustachian tube dysfunction may resolve with time and conservative measures, such as decongestants or nasal sprays. However, if there is an infection or significant inflammation, medical intervention may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

In summary, the connection between your throat pain and ear discomfort is likely due to the shared anatomical pathways and potential Eustachian tube dysfunction. Given the persistence of your symptoms, it is highly recommended that you consult an ENT specialist for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and promote a quicker recovery.

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