Earache

Earache is pain in or around one or both ears. It may come from the ear itself or be referred from the teeth, jaw or throat. Infection is one possibility, but not the only one. An examination is often needed because symptoms alone cannot show what is happening behind the eardrum.

What details should I notice?

Tell the clinician whether pain began after swimming, flying, a cold or an injury. Mention discharge, hearing changes, ringing, dizziness and fever. Pain with chewing or a tooth problem may point towards a source outside the ear.

For children, describe feeding, sleep and behaviour as well as whether they pull at an ear. Ear pulling alone does not establish an infection. A young child with significant pain or illness should be assessed rather than treated using advice intended for an adult.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Earache – causes and treatments - Healthdirect Australia.

Can I use ear drops or clean it myself?

Do not put cotton buds or other objects into the ear. A suspected foreign object should be assessed rather than pushed further in. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before using ear products, particularly with discharge, previous ear surgery or a possible perforated eardrum.

The clinician may need to inspect the ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope. A standard video consultation cannot provide the same view. Telehealth can help decide urgency or review an established plan, but an in-person appointment may be the appropriate first step.

When should I seek urgent care?

Swelling or pain behind the ear, an ear pushed forward, sudden hearing loss, facial weakness or significant dizziness needs prompt assessment. Fever with a person who seems very unwell also warrants urgent care. Call 000 for life-threatening symptoms. If an object or injury is involved, tell the service when arranging care so they can direct you appropriately. Persistent pain should not be dismissed simply because an earlier episode was an infection.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.