Ear Pain After Showering: Is It Inflammation or Something Else?

Q: Ear Pain After Showering: Is It Inflammation or Something Else?

Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to： 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction： This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. <br>2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss. <br>3) O

Ear problems

Hello, Dr.
Chi.
I would like to ask about a situation where water got into my ear after washing my hair.
For the past one or two days, I've been experiencing pain in my left ear when I burp, and I can hear sounds.
Whenever I eat on the left side, I also experience a ringing sensation in my ear, and the sounds of my own chewing seem amplified.
However, when I eat on the right side, I don't have the same issue.
I've never experienced anything like this before.
I would like to know if this could be an ear infection or something else.
Should I just go to a clinic for a check-up? Thank you, doctor.

Wuwu Wo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/17

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over.
2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
3) Otitis media: a) Acute otitis media: Often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (such as colds) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be ear discharge.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: This usually occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can become inflamed due to unclean water or improper ear cleaning.
4) Otitis externa.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication after consulting a physician.
If you have already undergone pure tone audiometry (which requires headphones in a soundproof room, where you press a button in response to sounds, rather than just using a tuning fork), and it confirms that you do not have sudden sensorineural hearing loss, then medication may suffice.
However, if you have not had a pure tone audiometry test, it is advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation to rule out sudden hearing loss, as the optimal treatment window for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is within two weeks, and early treatment yields better results.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2022/02/17

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the ear pain you are experiencing after showering. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be dealing with a few potential issues related to your ear.

When water enters the ear canal during activities like showering or washing your hair, it can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain. This is particularly true if the water becomes trapped in the ear canal, which can create a sensation of fullness or pressure. The symptoms you describe, such as pain when you burp or eat, as well as the perception of amplified sounds (like tinnitus), could indicate that there is some inflammation or irritation in the ear.

One possible explanation for your symptoms is acute otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear. This condition occurs when water remains trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment that can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. Symptoms typically include ear pain, itching, and sometimes discharge from the ear. The pain can be exacerbated by movements of the jaw, such as when eating or yawning, which may explain why you feel discomfort when you eat.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing eustachian tube dysfunction. The eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure. If water or mucus is present, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, and you might also experience pain or altered hearing. This could explain why you notice a difference in sound perception when eating on one side versus the other.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination of your ears, possibly using an otoscope to look for signs of infection, inflammation, or fluid buildup. They may also check for any signs of perforation in the eardrum, which can occur if there is significant pressure or infection.

In the meantime, here are a few tips to help alleviate your discomfort:
1. Avoid inserting objects into your ear: This includes cotton swabs, as they can push wax deeper and potentially cause injury.

2. Keep your ears dry: After showering, you can tilt your head to the side to help drain any trapped water. Using a hairdryer on a low setting, held at a safe distance, can also help evaporate moisture.

3. Over-the-counter pain relief: If you're experiencing significant discomfort, non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help.

4. Warm compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear can provide some relief from pain.

5. Avoid getting water in your ears: When showering, consider using earplugs or a shower cap to prevent water from entering your ears.

In summary, your symptoms could be indicative of inflammation or infection, and it is best to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can provide you with the best course of action based on a thorough examination. I hope you find relief soon!

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