What Specialist to See for Intermittent Pain Behind the Ear? - Family Medicine

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If you are experiencing intermittent pain behind your ear and between the back of your head, it is advisable to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist. This type of specialist is trained to diagnose and treat conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck.
The symptoms you describe could be related to several potential issues. Here are some possibilities:
1. Ear Infections: Conditions such as otitis media (middle ear infection) or otitis externa (outer ear infection) can cause pain that radiates to the area behind the ear. These infections can lead to inflammation and discomfort, which may be intermittent.

2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: The TMJ is located just in front of the ear, and issues with this joint can cause pain that may be felt behind the ear. Symptoms can include jaw pain, clicking sounds when moving the jaw, and headaches.

3. Cervical Spine Issues: Problems in the cervical spine, such as herniated discs or muscle strain, can lead to referred pain that may be felt in the area behind the ear. This is particularly relevant if you have been experiencing neck stiffness or discomfort.

4. Nerve Pain: Conditions such as occipital neuralgia, which involves irritation of the occipital nerves that run from the top of the spinal cord up through the scalp, can cause sharp, shooting pain in the back of the head and behind the ears.

5. Sinus Issues: Sinus infections or sinusitis can lead to referred pain in the ear area due to the close proximity of the sinuses to the ear structures.

6. Mastoiditis: This is an infection of the mastoid bone located behind the ear, which can cause pain and swelling in that area.

7. Other Causes: Other potential causes could include allergies, tension headaches, or even referred pain from dental issues.

When you visit an ENT specialist, they will likely perform a thorough examination, which may include a physical exam of your ears, nose, and throat, as well as a neurological examination to assess for any nerve-related issues. Depending on their findings, they may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, to further investigate the cause of your pain.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to keep track of your symptoms, noting when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any associated symptoms (such as headaches, jaw pain, or neck stiffness). This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your discomfort.

If you experience any worsening symptoms, such as severe pain, fever, or changes in hearing, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, especially if an infection or other treatable condition is present.
In summary, seeing an ENT specialist is a good first step in addressing your intermittent pain behind the ear. They will be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you toward appropriate treatment options based on their findings.