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Ear pain: causes, warning signs & what to do
Ear pain is common — especially in children — and often comes from infection or wax. Most settles, but persistent pain or hearing loss should be checked.
Common causes of ear pain
- Middle-ear infection (otitis media) — common in children
- Swimmer's ear (outer-ear infection)
- Ear wax build-up
- Referred pain from the throat, teeth or jaw (TMJ)
- Pressure changes (flying, diving)
- A foreign body (especially in children)
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe pain with swelling/redness behind the ear, or facial weakness — seek urgent care
- High fever, a very unwell child, or a stiff neck
- Sudden hearing loss, or discharge of blood/fluid after injury
- Pain not settling after a few days
Frequently asked questions
Do ear infections need antibiotics?
Many ear infections are viral and settle on their own with pain relief. Antibiotics are used in certain cases — a doctor decides based on age and severity.
How do I safely remove ear wax?
Never use cotton buds, which push wax deeper. Softening drops help; if the ear is blocked or painful, a clinician can clear it safely.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.