If you experience ear pain, it can definitely be concerning. So, what’s causing it?

There are many possible culprits, and our team at AFC Urgent Care Centennial walks you through some of them below.

What Are the Common Causes of Earaches?

Injury, infection, irritation in the ear or referred pain (pain felt somewhere other than the infection or injured site) are the most common causes. An example of referred pain is pain that originates in the jaw or teeth but is felt in the ear.

We’ve listed some more specific causes of ear pain below.

Common Culprits of Ear Pain

• Ear infection. Inner, middle and outer ear infections can cause pain and discomfort in one or both ears.
• Change in pressure, such as when flying on a plane
• Earwax buildup
• Sinus infection
• Use of cotton swabs in the ear
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome
• Perforated eardrum
• Impacted tooth
• Eczema in the ear canal

How Can I Help My Ear Feel Better?

There are many effective home remedies that we’ve listed below, but sometimes ear pain needs medical attention.

Experts say to seek medical attention if you experience severe ear pain that starts suddenly, as opposed to longstanding, dull ear pain. Sudden, sharp pains could be a sign of a ruptured eardrum. Also, if symptoms like dizziness, swelling around the ear or a bad headache appear, don’t wait to visit our AFC center to get medical treatment.

Home Remedies for Ear Pain

• Apply a cold washcloth to the ear.
• Avoid getting the ear wet.
• Sit upright to help relieve ear pressure.
• Use over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops.
• Take OTC pain relievers.

Whether it’s an earache, ear infection or any other general medical concern, our AFC Urgent Care Centennial team can provide the necessary treatment you need to feel better! Don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit us today.