The signs and symptoms of an earache can vary, but they may include:
- Pain in the ear: The most common symptom of an earache is pain in the ear, which can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain.
- Hearing loss: An ear infection or other condition that affects the ear can cause temporary hearing loss.
- Drainage from the ear: If there is an infection in the ear, you may experience drainage of pus or other fluids from the ear.
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus is the perception of ringing or other sounds in the ear that are not actually present. An ear infection or other condition can cause tinnitus.
- Fullness or pressure in the ear: If the Eustachian tubes are blocked, you may feel pressure or fullness in the ear.
- Itching or redness of the ear: An ear infection or other condition can cause itching and redness in the ear.
- Swelling or tenderness in or around the ear: An ear infection or other condition can cause swelling or tenderness in or around the ear.
- Dizziness or vertigo: Some conditions that cause ear pain, such as a middle ear infection, can also cause dizziness or vertigo.
If you or your child has a persistent fever of 104ºF (40 ºC) or higher, seek medical attention. For an infant, seek medical help immediately for a fever higher than 101ºF (38ºC). You should also seek immediate medical attention if you have severe pain that stops suddenly. This could be a sign of the eardrum rupturing.
You should also watch for other symptoms. If any of the following symptoms appear, make an appointment with your doctor:
- severe ear pain
- dizziness
- bad headache
- swelling around the ear
- drooping of the facial muscles
- blood or pus draining from the ear
- loss of balance
You should also make an appointment with your doctor if an earache gets worse or doesn’t improve in 24 to 48 hours. A doctor can help determine the underlying cause of your earache and recommend appropriate treatment.