Causes of earache in adults. Wearing earphones or .
Causes of earache in adults. Occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear without causing an infection. It is one of those discomforts that can disrupt your entire day, making it hard to concentrate, sleep, or do simple tasks. Sometimes, children need antibiotics, pain-relieving medications or ear tubes. Related conditions include: Dec 26, 2016 · Earaches (otalgia, pain in ear, ear pain) normally occur in children, however they can happen in adults as well. Apr 12, 2024 · Ear infections cause symptoms such as itching, deep pain, a clogged or full feeling, dizziness, and sometimes fever. Below is an overview of earache in adults, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and Jan 17, 2025 · Ear pain in adults is less likely to be from an ear infection. Learn what causes these infections and when to see your doctor. The pain may last a short time or be ongoing. Learn about their causes and symptoms, and how this condition is diagnosed and treated. Symptoms of earache are pain in the ear, fever, headache, or fluid leaking from the ear. Natural and home remedies for earaches or ear pain include warm compresses, OTC pain relievers, humidifiers, and essential oils. Depending on the type of infection, treatment may involve antibiotics, pain relievers, and ear drops. Apr 15, 2025 · Causes Swimmer's ear is an infection that's usually caused by bacteria. Antiobiotic ear drops often are used to treat an outer ear infection. Jul 2, 2024 · Ear pain can result from infections, ear-wax buildup, sinus issues or jaw problems. 3 days ago · Seasonal allergies can cause earaches, but it’s also possible for the inside of your ear to get inflamed due to an allergen, leading to an infection. Aug 28, 2024 · An earache is a pain in one or both ears. Jun 13, 2022 · Earaches are often caused by ear infections, but there are a number of other common causes. Contact Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Connecticut for effective management. Otitis media, a middle ear infection, is less common in adults than children. Since an ear infection is such a common reason for ear Jan 17, 2025 · An earache is a sharp, dull, or burning pain in one or both ears. Here are at-home treatment options and tips to reduce the ache in no time. Dec 23, 2021 · Ear pain in adults is less likely to be caused by an ear infection than in children. Why do children have more ear infections than adults? Find out about earache and ear pain, a common condition, particularly in young children. Jul 17, 2023 · Ear infections can be painful due to inflammation and fluid buildup. See how to manage pain at home and when to see a healthcare provider. Learn about the causes of earaches, their symptoms, and more. There are many causes of earache but the most common cause is infection. However, discomfort in and around the ear can be caused by many different problems. Often, ear infections clear on their own. If you have experienced an earache, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. Causes of Earache in Adults: Earache, or otalgia, is a common condition in adults that can result from various causes. This guide will cover the more common reasons for an ear ache. Learn more about cold-related earaches vs. Symptoms of a chronic ear infection include: Sep 11, 2025 · Ear infections can occur in the inner, middle, and outer parts of the ear. Jul 20, 2022 · While ear infections are more common in children, adults can get them as well. Middle ear infection (acute otitis media) is an infection in the middle ear. Ear infections in adults happen as a result of fluid caught in the ear from bacteria, a virus, or seasonal illness. Ear infections are most common in children but can also affect adults. Here is a look at some of the most common cause of earache in adults. Viruses associated with inner ear infections include influenza, herpes, Epstein-Barr, and polio. Apr 18, 2024 · Sometimes, earache and headache occur together. Most cases of ear pain do not require medical treatment and resolve independently. An ear infection in an adult may mean a more serious problem than in a child. Apr 6, 2025 · Ear pain has numerous causes including infections, sinusitis, and barotrauma. Written by a GP. Nov 5, 2024 · Common Causes of Earaches. Apr 14, 2025 · Ear infections are not a common symptom of COVID-19, though the two may have symptoms that overlap. Learn more about the causes and how to treat them. May 10, 2024 · Smoking and secondhand smoke can affect the immune system and cause ear infections in both adults and children. Jan 1, 2018 · Otalgia (ear pain) is a common presentation in the primary care setting with many diverse causes. Various diseases of teeth and jaw. Sometimes, healthcare professionals prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. Gain the knowledge you need to treat this widespread illness and start feeling better. Find out how to ease the symptoms yourself and when to get medical help. Earache in AdultsPeople often make an immediate association between earache and ear infection. Dec 7, 2023 · Ear infection without temperature: causes, symptoms, and treatments for ear infections that do not include fever. Over-the-counter pain relievers also may help, but talk with a healthcare provider if pain or swelling get worse. A few conditions can cause this, such as middle ear infections and migraine. Find the causes of your earache and use these practical home remedies to ease your suffering and restore your peace of mind. Jan 4, 2024 · Though more common in children, ear pain can occur in adults as well. Aug 13, 2025 · Ear pain is commonly related to dental problems like TMJ. Without treatment, permanent hearing loss may happen. It's not usually a sign of anything serious, but it can be painful. If home . Learn about the common causes of earaches in adults, such as arthritis, sinus infection, tooth infection, and how to treat them. May 10, 2024 · Though more common in children, adults can experience infections of the outer, middle, and inner ear. Ear infections also can be caused by scratching the ear canal when cleaning their ear, especially if a cotton-tipped applicator or Sep 6, 2025 · Causes of a Double Ear Infection Ear infections are most common in the middle ear. Secondary ear pain is a type of referred pain, meaning that the source of the pain differs from the location where the pain is felt. Ear Infections Without Fever Contrary to popular belief, adults often develop ear infections without a fever. Otitis media with effusion is another condition that affects the middle ear. Aug 8, 2025 · An earache can happen to anyone, at any age, and it can be more than just a minor annoyance. Learn all about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options here. Sep 9, 2021 · If you’re experiencing an earache as an adult, you might assume it’s an ear infection. Ear infections are often a direct result of a common cold, allergy or other upper respiratory illness. Treating a sinus infection with ear pain may involve home remedies or a prescription from your healthcare provider. Dec 19, 2024 · Key takeaways Ear infections, often resulting from bacterial or viral causes, are common in children due to their shorter eustachian tubes. Middle-ear infections are common in children, but they can also happen in adults. Aside from infection of the inner ear, other causes of ear pain include: Injury What causes ear pain? There are numerous potential causes. The signs and symptoms of ear infections should be observed by a doctor to prevent any complications. Some causes of ear pain in adults include: Arthritis in your jaw Dental infection Cyst Ear infection or Inner Ear Infection (Otitis Interna) An inner ear infection causes parts of your inner ear to become irritated or inflamed. In adults, ear infections are typically identified by ear pain, fluid draining from the ear, dizziness, and temporary loss of hearing. Feb 5, 2024 · Although ear infections are more common in children, adults can get them, too. Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the ear canal and results from swimming in contaminated water or as a result of cotton swab use. Ear ache is often described as a feeling of pressure in the ear. Learn more about why your ears hurt. Nov 20, 2017 · A chronic ear infection can cause milder symptoms than an acute ear infection. Reasons for Earaches in Adults Your ear comes with three main parts: the outer, middle, and inner. Causes of ear pain may include: Arthritis of the jaw Short-term (acute) ear infection Jan 21, 2025 · Discover the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for ear infections in adults to manage and prevent discomfort effectively. Ill-fitting hearing aids can create discomfort in your ear canal. Wearing earphones or Mar 2, 2024 · Are you having everyday disruptions from persistent earaches? Examine the in-depth Earache: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies guide. Feb 21, 2025 · Let’s review the top causes of ear pain in adults. Earaches and ear infections can have a variety of causes—viral, bacterial and fungal—and can affect different parts of the ear. What Causes Earaches in Adults? In adults, common causes of earaches include otitis externa or swimmer’s ear and TMJ dysfunction. Some Nov 13, 2024 · Discover common causes, symptoms, and treatments for earaches. Dec 7, 2023 · Learn about the correlation between ear infections and neck pain in adults and how to effectively manage and treat these symptoms. That’s why kids’ ears normally hurt, right? But ear pain in adults is usually not caused by infection. What are the types of middle-ear infections? Jun 19, 2024 · Some causes include ear infections, pressure changes (for example, when you fly on an airplane or when you scuba dive), or congestion from a respiratory virus such as a cold or flu. Sep 3, 2025 · Outer ear infections, often called swimmer's ear, can cause pain, itching, and other symptoms. Middle ear infections (otitis media) occur more often in children, but 20% of adults get them too. Jan 25, 2024 · Although ear infections are most common in children, adults can also get them. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments. Learn about symptoms and treatments for ear infections in adults in Columbus, Ohio. Ear infections can often go away on their own. Dec 19, 2023 · Although ear infections are more commonly associated with children, they can still manifest in adults, leading to symptoms such as ear pain, hearing impairment, and, occasionally, an elevation in body temperature. The most common causes of earaches are infections, ear trauma, and a ruptured eardrum. Sep 19, 2023 · Ear infections in adults can cause ear pain, drainage and hearing loss. Apr 17, 2024 · Overview Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections. Inner ear infections can happen if you catch a cold or have the flu. It can affect one or both ears and may be accompanied by other symptoms like hearing loss, fever, or drainage from the ear. There might be many causes, resulting in a difference in hearing such as certain medical conditions. ear infections and how to find relief. Learn more about earwax and common complications. Jun 26, 2025 · Ear infection is a common condition caused by an infection or allergies, and it can affect the middle, outer, or inner ear. This is the part of the ear that contains the hearing bones (ossicles) and a passage called the Eustachian tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and top of the throat. Sep 8, 2025 · An ear infection that won’t heal is known as a chronic ear infection, and it may require treatment from a specialist. If you have an ear infection, you should see your health care provider for treatment. Oct 10, 2024 · What is ear pain? Ear pain (an earache) is a symptom of many health conditions. Home remedies for ear infections include hot and warm compresses, hydrogen peroxide and pain relievers. Such body parts include the nose, sinuses, throat, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Jun 28, 2017 · Learn about the causes of ear pain and how to identify serious symptoms—so you know when it's time to seek care for your pain. It might be continuous or reoccur, and the pain might be dull, sharp, or burning. Chronic ear infections are much less common than acute ear infections. It's less common for a fungus or virus to cause swimmer's ear. Adult ear infections are usually worse than those kids get. Sep 13, 2024 · In adults, ear infections are often linked to factors that cause their Eustachian tubes to become inflamed and blocked, including allergies, chronic illness, upper respiratory infections like the common cold and exposure to environmental irritants like pollution or smoke. An ear, nose and throat specialist shares advice and encourages prompt medical attention. Earaches can be caused by injury, infection, irritation in the ear, or referred pain. Otalgia results from otologic causes (involving the middle ear or external ear) or from nonotologic causes referred to the ear from nearby disease processes (see table Some Causes of Otalgia). Middle ear infections can affect both children and adults. Learn when to see a doctor and get tips to prevent ear infections and discomfort. But using antibiotics too often can cause the medicine to not work as well against the bacteria. An earache might affect one or both ears, however the majority of the time it remains in one ear. Pain that you feel in the ear may be coming from another place, such as your teeth, the joint in your jaw (temporomandibular joint), or your throat. However, among the main causes of earache there is an ear inflammation that always causes discomfort: otitis and myringitis. Ear pain can be caused by an infection of the inner ear, middle ear, or outer ear, a blockage or buildup of wax, dental problems, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). So treatment might begin with managing pain and watching the issue. Jul 3, 2025 · Think ear infections only affect kids? Think again. Sudden changes in air pressure can irritate and damage your ears. Causes of Earache Ear pain may be due to a disorder within the ear itself or a disorder in a nearby body part that shares the same nerves to the brain as the ear. As well as professional help, fortunately, there are natural remedies you can try at home to alleviate discomfort. Aug 30, 2023 · Reasons for throat and ear pain range from a passing infection to something far more serious. Aug 10, 2021 · Earaches and ear infections can still occur in adults. There are many reasons why earaches happen, and finding the cause is important for relief. Prolonged episodes of severe cough. Oct 24, 2024 · Colds and ear infections can cause inflammation and pain in the ear. Take antibiotics as prescribed and finish all of the prescription. Ear infections often clear up on their own. This article will explore the top causes of ear pain and when to see a doctor for an earache. We explore the common causes of earaches, from infections to impacted earwax, and provide insights into effective solutions. It could point to an underlying issue. Apr 4, 2023 · Find out some of the common causes of ear pain in elderly people, with information on common ear infections & the best treatments for ear pain. Find out which experts say are worth considering and when you need to see a healthcare professional for an earache. Jan 9, 2020 · What Causes Earaches in Adults? In adults, common causes of earaches include otitis externa or swimmer’s ear and TMJ dysfunction. Jan 1, 2025 · Ear infections are more common in children because their eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower, and more horizontal than in adults. Jul 27, 2023 · Earache, or ear pain, is very common, especially in children. Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections. Jun 23, 2025 · Ear Infections in Adults: Causes and Treatments Explained Comprehensive Exploration of Ear Infections: A Detailed Guide to Types and Treatments Gaining a thorough understanding of the diverse types of ear infections is imperative for everyone, especially for adults who may be more susceptible to these painful conditions. Mar 23, 2024 · Find out what causes the painful ear infection called swimmer's ear (otitis externa) and what you can do to treat it. Symptoms may affect one or both ears and may be constant or come and go. Seek medical attention if they don’t do the trick. Feb 10, 2023 · Ear infections are less common in adults than in children, but they may be more serious or more difficult to treat. Aug 27, 2025 · There are several causes of sharp pain in the ear, including pressure changes and infections. They can also develop when a middle ear infection moves into your inner ear. Earaches are a general term used to describe the discomfort resulting from various conditions. It's a common problem that can affect all ages. [1][2] Primary ear pain is pain that originates from the ear. So you may need additional tests. It's essential to identify the cause to get the right treatment, and relief. Learn about symptoms and treatment. Earache and ear pain is caused by a variety of diseases and conditions, for example, causes like swimmer's ear, middle ear infections, and TMJ. They can lead to symptoms like pain, fever, and hearing loss. Sep 13, 2016 · Earaches are more common among young children than adults, but an earache can occur at any age. The treatment for ear pain with headache depends on what’s causing it. Ear Infection (Otitis Media) Ear infections (acute otitis media) occur when a virus or bacteria infects the space behind your child’s eardrum. But have you wondered what causes them and how they can be prevented? From common lifestyle Ear infections can arise for a variety of reasons and can manifest in many different ways. Common infections include inner ear, middle ear and outer ear infections (or what is commonly known as “swimmer’s ear). Learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments here. Learn how to treat your symptoms. Apart from it, ear pain can also be caused by: Different types of allergies. Swimmer's ear can cause redness and swelling in the ear. Pain that originates from the ear is called primary otalgia, and the most common causes are otitis Feb 28, 2025 · Earaches can disrupt your day. Or it might mean you have an ear infection. Usually after a watch-and-wait time, a healthcare professional might suggest using an antibiotic for an Dec 15, 2020 · Other conditions also can cause ear ache or ear pain, especially in adults. 1 Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause ear infections. Feb 14, 2023 · An earache may affect one or both ears, but the majority of the time it’s in one ear. Nov 12, 2024 · 1. Symptoms include ear pain that may cause your infant or toddler to be especially fussy or irritable. Ear pain, also known as earache or otalgia, is pain in the ear. “It can begin suddenly or gradually, and it can be quite severe,” Dr. Jul 18, 2022 · What causes ear infections? Middle ear infections, which are the most common ear infections, are caused by a bacterium or virus that infects fluid that builds up in the middle ear. However, treatment is needed in some cases. Sep 27, 2024 · Sinus infections can lead to ear pain. Talk to your child's healthcare professional about the pros and cons of using antibiotics. Dec 30, 2024 · Ear infections are common, especially in children. Learn about ear infections and COVID-19. Pain and fever can be the most common symptoms. Oct 9, 2024 · Not all home treatments for ear infection are safe. Hale says. They occur when bacteria or viruses enter the middle ear, often through the Eustachian tube, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup. Dec 7, 2023 · Learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for ear infections in adults that do not include a fever. Mar 9, 2017 · Recurrent ear infections are called ‘chronic’ and require a doctor’s exam and treatment, which can include pain medicines, antibiotics, or, in severe cases, surgery. This is called referred pain. With acute pain, the most common causes are Middle ear effusion with or without infection External ear infection With chronic pain (> 2 to 3 weeks), the most common causes are Temporomandibular joint Dec 21, 2021 · An ear infection is a common issue among older adults. Nov 5, 2021 · Causes of adult ear infections Learn about the three types of ear infections as well as what causes ear infections in adults: Inner ear An inner ear infection, also called otitis interna, is most commonly caused by a viral infection. As a result, your hearing and balance can be affected. In children, these infections can also be associated with a fever, fussiness, loss of appetite, and even loss of balance. [3][4] Primary ear pain is more common than secondary ear pain, [5] and it is often due Apr 23, 2025 · Antibiotic medicines Antibiotics might be helpful for some children and for adults with ear infections. Ear pain in adults occurs when fluids build up in the middle ear, resulting in infection. Apr 3, 2024 · Dealing with an earache or significant ear pain can be quite distressing. Sep 12, 2023 · Understand the various causes of ear pain that can affect the ear canal, cartilage, tissue, and more. 2 days ago · Adults Ear Infection: Signs, Causes & Treatments Though an ear infection is more frequently diagnosed in children, it is also common in adults. Our ENT tells us who gets them, why they happen and what you can do to treat and prevent them. Home remedies for ear infections include using cold or warm compresses, neck exercises, garlic oil, and various natural substances like mullein and tea tree oil to alleviate symptoms. Does not cause fever, ear pain, or pus build-up in NHS information about ear infections, which are very common, particularly in children. Learn more about the link between smoking and ear infections here. How Can Adults Reduce Their Risk of Ear Infections? Apr 2, 2025 · Earache - an easy to understand guide covering causes, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment and prevention plus additional in depth medical information. Learn how ear infections in adults develop, how to recognize the signs, and which treatments actually work. There are different types of ear infections. Jun 14, 2023 · If you’ve dealt with ear pain, you probably want to know how to stop an earache fast. Most causes of ear pain are non-life-threatening. Outer ear infections are the most common for adults. Apr 23, 2025 · An ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, is an infection of the air-filled space behind the eardrum, known as the middle ear. This can help prevent antibiotic-resistant infections or incomplete treatment with the infection returning. Feb 10, 2023 · Adult ear infections are usually relatively rare compared to kids, but more adults are getting ear infections this year. Know the type of infection you have and get treatments early. Aug 19, 2022 · Earwax (cerumen) serves a purpose but excessive amounts can cause problems for your ear. Ear Infections Ear infections are one of the most common causes of ear pain. sx5937zdrtsvxcz0dkgne2mtnqpzuwyxm15tkvysgcvx8fpad