Why Does My Ear Hurt?

Ear pain (otalgia) is a common symptom that can affect people of all ages. The pain can range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as ear discharge, hearing loss, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

There are many different causes of ear pain, some of which are:

1) External otitis: This is an infection of the outer ear, which is the part of the ear that you can see. It is often caused by bacteria or fungi that enter the ear through a break in the skin, such as a scratch or a puncture. Symptoms of external otitis include pain, redness, swelling, and itching.

2) Otitis media: This is an infection of the middle ear, which is the air-filled space behind the eardrum. It is often caused by bacteria or viruses that travel from the nose and throat to the ear through the Eustachian tube, which is a small tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. Symptoms of otitis media include pain, fever, headache, and hearing loss.

3) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is a condition in which the Eustachian tube does not open and close properly. This can cause pressure to build up in the middle ear, which can lead to pain, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Eustachian tube dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors, such as allergies, colds, flu, and smoking.

4) Meniere's disease: This is a chronic inner ear disorder that is characterized by episodes of vertigo (a feeling of spinning or dizziness), hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear pressure. The exact cause of Meniere's disease is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a buildup of fluid in the inner ear.

5) Acoustic neuroma: This is a noncancerous tumor that grows on the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. Symptoms of acoustic neuroma can include hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and balance problems.

If you are experiencing ear pain, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.