Left Ear Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Pain upon pressing the inside of the left ear?

Hello: Recently, I have noticed that when I gently push my little finger slightly into my left ear towards the back, it causes a sharp pain.
Even when I don't intentionally touch it, there are sudden episodes of pain.
I visited an otolaryngologist recently, but no abnormalities were found, yet the pain in my ear persists intermittently.
I would like to know the possible reasons for this and which specialist I should consult.
Thank you.

Mandarin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/11

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if your ears have been examined and no specific abnormalities were found, but you still experience frequent pain, you may consider visiting a neurologist to check for neuralgia or other issues.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/12/11

More Info

Left ear pain can be a distressing symptom, and understanding its potential causes is essential for determining the appropriate course of action. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing intermittent pain in your left ear, which can occur even without direct contact. This type of pain can arise from various conditions, and I will outline some possible causes and when you should seek medical help.

Possible Causes of Left Ear Pain
1. Ear Canal Inflammation (Otitis Externa): This condition, often referred to as swimmer's ear, occurs when the ear canal becomes inflamed, usually due to infection. Symptoms may include pain, itching, and sometimes discharge. If you have been in water frequently or have a habit of inserting objects into your ear, this could be a likely cause.

2. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): This is a common condition, especially following upper respiratory infections. It can cause pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and sometimes fever. If you have had recent cold or sinus issues, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube helps equalize pressure in the middle ear. If it is not functioning properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness, pain, and even hearing changes. This dysfunction can be exacerbated by allergies, colds, or sinus infections.

4. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: The TMJ is located near the ear, and issues with this joint can cause pain that radiates to the ear. Symptoms may include jaw pain, clicking sounds, and difficulty chewing.

5. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the ear can be referred from other areas, such as the throat or teeth. Conditions like dental abscesses or throat infections can manifest as ear pain.

6. Nerve Irritation or Neuralgia: Conditions affecting the nerves around the ear, such as trigeminal neuralgia, can cause sharp, shooting pain in the ear area.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that you have already consulted an ENT specialist without any findings of abnormalities, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. However, you should seek further medical attention if:
- The pain persists or worsens over time.

- You experience additional symptoms such as fever, discharge from the ear, or significant hearing loss.

- You have a history of recurrent ear infections or other ear-related issues.

- You notice swelling or redness around the ear or jaw.

- The pain interferes with your daily activities or sleep.

Recommended Specialists
If your symptoms continue, it may be beneficial to revisit an ENT specialist for a more thorough examination. They may perform additional tests, such as audiometry or imaging studies, to assess the underlying cause of your pain. If TMJ disorder is suspected, a consultation with a dentist specializing in jaw disorders may also be warranted.

In conclusion, while there are several potential causes for your left ear pain, careful observation and timely medical consultation are key to addressing the issue effectively. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation to ensure appropriate treatment and management.

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