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Written by Dr John Pillinger, GP and Dr Stuart Crisp, paediatric specialist registrar
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Earache is mainly due to problems in either the outer ear (from
the earlobe to the eardrum) or the middle ear (behind the eardrum). In some
cases, problems in the throat or the mouth, such as
tonsillitis, can also
cause earache.
Listed below are some common reasons for earache.
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If you have earache
Try sleeping with your head in an elevated position.
Take a mild pain reliever such as aspirin or paracetamol.
Aspirin should not
be given to children under 16, unless on the advice of a doctor.
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Ear wax
Ear wax can gather in the ear canal (auditory canal). Eventually
it can form an ear plug, which impairs hearing and may cause pain.
Using a cotton bud doesn't help because this usually only pushes
the wax further inside the ear, doing more harm than good. It also carries the
risk of perforating the eardrum.
A plug can be softened with a little olive or vegetable oil.
Drops can also be bought at the chemists that are designed for this purpose.
The practice nurse at your doctor's surgery may syringe the
ears by flushing out the ear wax with water.
Inflammation of the middle ear
Usually earache starts further inside the ear.
Inflammation of the middle
ear is the most frequent cause and is often (although not always) due to
an infection.
Because of increased pressure in the middle ear, the eardrum is
stretched and swollen. This impairs hearing and is painful.
Mild painkillers such as paracetamol can be used if the pain is
severe.
Antibiotics may also be prescribed. However, the role of
antibiotics is still uncertain. They probably do not offer any benefit in the
majority of people with inflammation of the middle ear, and often are
associated with side effects.
Eczema
Eczema can occur in
the auditory canal, causing dry, red, scaly and itchy skin. This can also
become infected and painful.
Eczema sufferers should be careful about putting cotton buds
into their ear because it usually only makes matters worse. Ear drops
containing corticosteroids may relieve and heal the irritated auditory canal.
Antibacterials or antifungals may be required if there is
infection.
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Last updated 04.01.2005
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