Earache
A generalized term for sensations of pressure, discomfort, and PAIN in the area of the EAR. Pain messages from other structures of the head and neck, such as the NOSE and THROAT, also sometimes appear to come from the ear (referred pain). A common cause of earache in children is OTITIS media (INFECTION of the middle ear).
Congestion in the eustachian tubes can cause fluid to accumulate between the TYMPANIC MEMBRANE (eardrum) and the inner ear, creating increased pressure, which causes pain. A child who is too young to speak may pull or tug at the ears. INFLAMMATION or infection of the auditory canal, commonly called swimmer’s ear, is a frequent cause of earache in older children and adults. Referred pain in adults may indicate health conditions such as temporomandibular JOINT (TMJ) disorder, dental problems, SINUSITIS, TONSILLITIS, and PHARYNGITIS.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the earache. ANTIHISTAMINE MEDICATIONS can reduce congestion due to allergic response. ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS are necessary when the infection is bacterial. ANALGESIC MEDICATIONS to relieve pain, such as acetaminophen and NONSTEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS), can ease the discomfort while HEALING takes place. Generally, treating the underlying reason for the pain causes the earache to go away.
Congestion in the eustachian tubes can cause fluid to accumulate between the TYMPANIC MEMBRANE (eardrum) and the inner ear, creating increased pressure, which causes pain. A child who is too young to speak may pull or tug at the ears. INFLAMMATION or infection of the auditory canal, commonly called swimmer’s ear, is a frequent cause of earache in older children and adults. Referred pain in adults may indicate health conditions such as temporomandibular JOINT (TMJ) disorder, dental problems, SINUSITIS, TONSILLITIS, and PHARYNGITIS.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the earache. ANTIHISTAMINE MEDICATIONS can reduce congestion due to allergic response. ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS are necessary when the infection is bacterial. ANALGESIC MEDICATIONS to relieve pain, such as acetaminophen and NONSTEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS), can ease the discomfort while HEALING takes place. Generally, treating the underlying reason for the pain causes the earache to go away.
Comments (1)
I am so lucky that my girl have never really had any earaches to speak of. They were all breastfed and I have heard that is a great way to keep the ear pain at bay. have you heard that?