Ear pain may stem from many different problems. There are some over the counter (OTC) remedies that may relieve the problem, or you may need to seek care at SHS.

For pain relief, you may apply a warm compress, keep the ear dry when showering or bathing, or use acetaminophen or ibuprofen according to the label.

FLUID BUILDUP

Ear pain is often caused by fluid buildup and pressure in the middle ear (the area behind the ear drum). When the eustachian tube swells or closes, the fluid accumulates and causes pressure and decreased hearing. This stagnant fluid provides a good place for bacteria to grow.

• TREATMENTS
  • Decongestants or antihistamines can help shrink the eustachian tube.
  • Do not scuba dive or fly in an airplane or change atmospheric pressure rapidly.
• SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • If pain is severe, fever is present or there is drainage from the ear.

 

EAR WAXIMPACTION

Pain can occur when wax is in contact with the ear drum or the canal is blocked. This can happen when wax has been pushed back into the canal with Q-tips or moved by water. Usually diminished hearing accompanies the discomfort.

• TREATMENT
  • Often warm water in the ear from a shower will dislodge the wax
  • Wax softners such as olive oil, Cerumenex or Debrox may be irritating if not used properly-follow directions exactly.
  • Never attempt to remove wax with paper clips, hairpins or cotton swabs. You may damage the lining of your ear canal or perforate the ear drum.
• SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • For irrigation/wax removal if OTC remedies aren't effective.

 

SWIMMERS EAR

This condition is caused by a fungus or bacteria overgrowth in the outer canal due to the canal remaining soggy. Itching of the canal may be a complaint.

• TREATMENTS
  • Solutions over the counter, such as Star-Otic
  • Solution of 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water may be used to dry the canal following showering or swimming
• SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • If pain is severe, recurrent or unresponsive to home remedies.

   

 

RUPTURED EAR DRUM

A ruptured eardrum may occur with trauma, infection or sudden

barometric changes, and thepain may subside after rupture. Dizziness or ringing in the ears may be present. Most ruptures heal without intervention, and many times happens without your even realizing it.

• TREATMENT
  • DO NOT put anything in the canal
• SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • If there is any discharge (white, yellow, or bloody) from the canal; dizziness or ringing in the ears.

 

FOREIGN BODY

In small children, the foreign body in the ear canal is usually a pea, pencil eraser, or pebbles. In adults it is most usually an insect that has crawled into the canal.

• SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • For removal of the object with water irrigation or special instruments