Ear Ache
Ear Aches in Fullerton, CA
Earaches can be uncomfortable and sometimes even debilitating, affecting both children and adults alike. They can result from a variety of causes, ranging from infections to ear injuries, and often interfere with hearing, balance, and daily activities. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe ear pain, it’s crucial to seek professional evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. At our Fullerton, CA, clinic, our skilled ENT specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating earaches with precision and care.
Using the latest technology and techniques, we provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific condition, helping you find relief from ear pain and restore your ear health. Whether the cause is an infection, injury, or other ear condition, we are here to help you on your path to recovery. Don’t let ear pain go untreated—reach out today to schedule a consultation.
Common Causes of Ear Aches
Ear Infections (Otitis Media or Otitis Externa)
Ear infections are a leading cause of earaches. Otitis media, an infection of the middle ear, often occurs due to fluid buildup behind the eardrum, especially in children. Otitis externa, or swimmer’s ear, is an infection of the outer ear canal, typically caused by bacteria or water exposure.
Eardrum Injury (Perforated Eardrum)
A ruptured or perforated eardrum can result from infection, loud noises, sudden pressure changes (like during flights), or inserting objects into the ear. It often leads to sharp pain, hearing loss, and possible drainage from the ear.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders
TMJ disorders affecting the jaw joint can cause pain that radiates to the ear, mimicking the symptoms of an earache. Jaw stiffness, grinding, or difficulty chewing may accompany this pain.
Earwax Blockage.
A buildup of earwax can block the ear canal, leading to discomfort, pain, and even temporary hearing loss. While earwax is a natural defense mechanism, excessive buildup can cause pressure and irritation..
Sinus or Throat Infections
Infections of the sinuses or throat can spread to the ears due to the connected anatomy. This can cause referred pain, leading to earaches even if the ear itself is not directly infected.
Foreign Objects in the Ear
Children, in particular, may place small objects in their ears, leading to discomfort and pain. If left untreated, this can result in infection or damage to the ear canal or eardrum.
How Are Ear Aches Diagnosed and Treated?
If you’re dealing with an earache, our ENT specialists will conduct a thorough examination, often using an otoscope to inspect the ear canal and eardrum for any issues.
Treatment options will vary based on the diagnosis. For bacterial ear infections, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat infection and alleviate pain. If earwax buildup is causing discomfort, safe and professional removal can provide relief and restore hearing. Pain may also be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications. In cases where the eardrum is perforated, surgical repair (myringoplasty) might be necessary. If allergies or sinus problems are contributing to the pain, decongestants or antihistamines could be recommended. For earaches linked to TMJ disorders, jaw exercises or specialized treatments may help reduce discomfort and improve movement.
Don’t let ear pain disrupt your life—seek expert care to find the right solution and start feeling better today.