That familiar throb, sharp sting, or dull ache in your ear—it’s hard to ignore, and even harder to diagnose on your own. Whether it came on suddenly or lingers for days, ear pain can have many causes, some harmless and others more serious. And the kicker? The pain you’re feeling in your ear might not even be coming from your ear at all.
If you’ve ever asked, “Why does my ear hurt?” you’re not alone. Ear pain is one of the most common reasons people visit urgent care or a GP. From mild irritation to piercing discomfort, understanding what’s really behind that earache is the first step toward finding relief.
In this article, we’ll break down the types of ear pain, what parts of the ear could be involved, and both common and surprising causes. You’ll learn when you can treat it at home, when it’s time to call a doctor, and what signs point to something more serious.
Because sometimes, the pain is a whisper from your body—and it pays to listen closely.
Outer, Middle, or Inner Ear? Understanding Where the Pain Comes From
Not all ear pain is created equal. The ear is a surprisingly complex structure with three distinct sections—each of which can be the source of discomfort. Understanding which part of the ear is involved helps narrow down the cause and guides proper treatment.
The Anatomy of Ear Pain
Let’s break it down:
Outer Ear (External Ear): This includes everything from the visible part of your ear (pinna) to the ear canal that leads to your eardrum. Pain here is often caused by skin irritation, infections, or trauma like excessive cleaning or scratching.
Middle Ear: Located behind the eardrum, this air-filled space houses tiny bones that transmit sound. It’s also connected to your throat via the Eustachian tube, which helps equalize pressure. Pain here is often due to fluid buildup, infections (otitis media), or pressure changes.
Inner Ear: Though it’s deeper inside and responsible for balance and hearing, this area rarely causes pain directly. However, inner ear issues can be associated with symptoms like vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss, which may be mistaken for pain.
How to Tell What Part of the Ear Is Affected
Pain when touching or pulling the ear usually signals an outer ear issue (like swimmer’s ear or irritation).
A feeling of fullness, popping, or muffled hearing is often tied to middle ear pressure problems or infection.
Balance problems or nausea without visible inflammation could suggest inner ear involvement, though not always painful.
Other symptoms can offer additional clues:
Fever, drainage, or swelling = likely infection
Jaw pain or pain that worsens when chewing = possibly TMJ or referred pain
Itchiness = allergies, eczema, or outer ear skin irritation
Now that you know where the pain might be coming from, let’s dive into the most common causes of ear pain.
Common Causes of Ear Pain
Ear pain can have many culprits, but a few conditions account for the majority of cases. Knowing these common causes can help you narrow down what you’re experiencing—and decide what action to take.
Ear Infections: The Leading Cause
1. Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear)
An infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal, often caused by trapped moisture, bacteria, or minor abrasions. Common signs include:
Pain when touching the outer ear
Itching or swelling inside the canal
Watery or pus-like drainage
Muffled hearing
2. Otitis Media
This is a middle ear infection, more common in children but still possible in adults—especially during or after a cold. Symptoms include:
A deep, dull ache or sharp pain
Trouble hearing
A feeling of fullness or pressure
Fever and irritability
Earwax Blockage
Too much wax isn’t just annoying—it can cause:
A blocked sensation
Sudden ear pain or discomfort
Itching or ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Reduced hearing
Trying to remove wax yourself with objects like cotton swabs can push it deeper, causing more pain and potentially injury.
Pressure Changes and Barotrauma
Rapid altitude changes, like during air travel or diving, can cause ear pain due to uneven pressure in the middle ear. Symptoms may include:
Sharp pain during takeoff or landing
A popping or clogged feeling
Temporary hearing loss
Fluid sensation behind the eardrum
This condition, called barotrauma, is usually mild but can sometimes lead to lasting issues if the pressure difference damages the eardrum.
Surprising Reasons Your Ear Might Hurt
Not all ear pain originates from infections or blockages. In fact, your ear could be the victim of another issue entirely—one that’s coming from a nearby part of your body or even from a totally unrelated condition. These are known as referred pains, and they’re more common than most people think.
Jaw Issues (TMJ Disorders)
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located just in front of your ears. When this joint is inflamed or misaligned—due to teeth grinding, stress, arthritis, or jaw clenching—it can lead to:
A dull or aching pain near the ear
Clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth
Pain that worsens with chewing or talking
A tight or sore jaw
Throat Infections and Tonsillitis
The nerves in your throat, tonsils, and ears are closely linked. Infections like strep throat or tonsillitis can radiate pain up to the ear, even if your ears are perfectly healthy. Clues this might be the case include:
Sore throat that worsens when swallowing
Swollen glands in the neck
Fever and fatigue
Red or pus-covered tonsils
Dental Problems
Cavities, tooth abscesses, or impacted wisdom teeth can trigger pain that radiates to the ears. You might feel:
A constant throbbing or sharp pain
Tooth or gum sensitivity
Swelling in the jaw or cheek
Pain when chewing
Skin Conditions and Allergies
If your outer ear or ear canal is itchy or irritated, it could be due to:
Eczema or dermatitis
Allergic reactions to soaps, earrings, or headphones
Psoriasis, which can affect the ear canal and cause flaking, soreness, and sensitivity
Nerve Sensitivity and Neurological Conditions
Rarely, nerve-related conditions like trigeminal neuralgia or glossopharyngeal neuralgia can cause sharp, electric shock-like pain near the ear, especially when eating or talking.
These surprising causes are why ear pain can sometimes persist even after you’ve ruled out infection or wax. If your discomfort doesn’t match the usual patterns, it might be time to consider a non-ear-related issue.
When Ear Pain Is a Sign of Something Serious
Most ear pain is harmless and resolves with simple care—but some symptoms signal the need for urgent medical attention. Ignoring these red flags could delay treatment for a serious underlying condition.
Red Flags That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Sudden, severe ear pain: Especially if it comes on abruptly or disrupts sleep
Hearing loss: If your pain is accompanied by a noticeable drop in hearing, this could indicate a ruptured eardrum or inner ear issue
Fluid draining from the ear: Yellow, white, or bloody fluid can suggest an infection or perforation
Balance problems or vertigo: This could point to inner ear disturbances like labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis
Persistent fever: A high or prolonged fever with ear pain might mean the infection is spreading
Facial weakness or drooping: Rare but serious, this could signal complications like Bell’s palsy or mastoiditis
Pain that lasts longer than 2–3 days without improvement
If any of these symptoms occur, see a doctor promptly—especially if over-the-counter relief doesn’t help.
Ear Pain in Adults vs. Children
In Children:
Ear infections are more common due to shorter, more horizontal Eustachian tubes
Children may tug at their ear, cry more, or struggle with sleep and eating
Often triggered by colds or respiratory infections
In Adults:
Adults are more prone to complicated conditions like cholesteatoma, which requires specialist treatment
The bottom line? If you’re in doubt—especially if symptoms are new, severe, or persistent—get it checked out. A simple exam can rule out serious problems and offer fast relief.
How to Treat Ear Pain Safely at Home or with Help
Mild to moderate ear pain often responds well to simple at-home treatments—especially when it’s due to infections, wax buildup, or temporary pressure changes. But knowing when to switch from self-care to professional care is key to preventing complications.
At-Home Treatments for Ear Pain
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. These are especially effective for:
Middle ear pressure
Jaw-related pain
Infections that are being monitored
2. Warm Compresses
Applying a warm cloth or heating pad (not hot) over the affected ear can help soothe pain from infections or TMJ issues.
3. Ear Drops
For outer ear infections or wax buildup:
Olive oil or over-the-counter wax softeners can help dislodge earwax
Antibiotic or antifungal drops (only if prescribed) can treat infections
Never use drops if there’s drainage, a ruptured eardrum, or you’re unsure of the cause.
4. Keep the Ear Dry
Avoid swimming, baths, or inserting objects into the ear if you suspect an outer ear infection or have sensitivity after treatment.
5. Chewing and Swallowing Techniques
If flying or experiencing altitude changes, chewing gum, yawning, or swallowing frequently can help balance pressure in the ears.
When to See a Doctor
Call a GP, ENT specialist, or urgent care provider if:
The pain doesn’t improve after 48–72 hours
It gets worse despite home treatment
There’s drainage, swelling, or hearing loss
You experience dizziness, fever, or facial pain
Ear pain is frequent or recurring
Your provider may examine your ear with an otoscope, take a medical history, and recommend further treatment—which may include prescription drops, antibiotics, or ear cleaning.
Conclusion: Listen to Your Pain—Because Your Ear Might Be Trying to Tell You Something
Whether it’s sharp, dull, constant, or intermittent, ear pain is never something you should ignore—especially when it lingers or comes with other symptoms. While many causes are mild and easily treatable, some may signal a deeper issue requiring medical attention.
By understanding where the pain comes from, recognizing common and uncommon causes, and knowing when to treat it at home vs when to call your GP, you’ll be in a stronger position to take action—and feel relief faster.
So if you’ve been wondering, “Why does my ear hurt?”, the best answer is: it depends. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Pay attention to what your body is saying, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional when something feels off.
Because good hearing—and a pain-free ear—is worth protecting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I be worried if only one ear hurts?
Not necessarily. Unilateral ear pain is common and often due to wax buildup, localized infection, or jaw tension. However, if the pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by hearing loss or drainage, it’s best to see a doctor to rule out a ruptured eardrum or more serious cause.
Can allergies cause ear pain?
Yes. Seasonal allergies or allergic reactions can cause Eustachian tube dysfunction, leading to pressure, discomfort, and even temporary hearing changes. Skin allergies can also irritate the ear canal, causing itching or mild pain.
What helps with ear pain at night?
Use a warm compress on the affected ear
Sleep with your head elevated to reduce pressure
Take ibuprofen or paracetamol before bed
Avoid lying on the painful side
If the pain disrupts sleep for more than two nights, consult a doctor.
Is ear pain always due to an infection?
No. While infections are a common cause, ear pain can also stem from jaw issues, dental problems, nerve sensitivity, or referred pain from the throat. That’s why diagnosis by a healthcare professional is important when the cause isn’t obvious.
How long should ear pain last?
Mild ear pain from a cold or pressure change may resolve within a day or two. Infections often improve within 48–72 hours with treatment. If pain persists longer than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice.
Can stress or anxiety cause ear pain?
Yes. Stress can contribute to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, which in turn can lead to TMJ-related ear pain. It may also amplify pain perception or cause tension in the neck and face that radiates to the ear.
