Nothing ruins a good day faster than a sudden earache. One minute you’re going through life as usual and the next, you’re wincing at the pain in your ear. Whether it's a sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull, throbbing ache, ear pain can be uncomfortable and really disrupt yours or your child’s day.
But don’t worry, earaches are common and your community pharmacist is here to help. Here’s what you need to know about why they happen, how to manage the pain and when it’s time to get help from your community pharmacist.
What causes earaches?
Earaches can be caused by a range of factors and knowing the source of your pain can be the first step in getting relief. Some common causes of ear aches include:
- Middle ear infections (otitis media): This is one of the most frequent reasons for earaches, especially in children. It happens when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, often following a cold or upper respiratory infection.
- Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa): If you've spent time swimming or in the shower recently, moisture trapped in your ear can lead to an infection of the outer ear canal. This condition can cause pain, itching and even temporary hearing loss.
- Earwax blockages: Sometimes, a build-up of earwax can cause pain and discomfort. If wax blocks the ear canal, it can lead to pressure and even temporary hearing problems.
- Air pressure changes: Ever notice your ears popping on a plane or while driving up a mountain? Changes in air pressure can cause ear pain, as the ear struggles to balance the pressure inside and outside.
- Jaw or dental issues: Problems with your teeth, gums or jaw can sometimes cause pain that feels like it’s coming from the ear. This type of referred pain can be tricky, so it’s important to seek professional advice if your earache persists.
Earache symptoms to watch out for
Earaches often come with additional symptoms that can help pinpoint the cause:
Treating earaches at home
The good news is that many earaches can be managed at home with some simple remedies:
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers, like paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Your local community pharmacist can advise on the best option for you.
- Warm compress: Applying a warm cloth to the outside of the ear can soothe discomfort and help with pain management.
- Ear drops: For earwax blockages or swimmer’s ear, your community pharmacist may recommend ear drops to soften wax or treat the infection.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated can help your body fight off infections and swallowing or yawning can also help relieve pressure in the ear caused by air pressure changes.
When to seek help from your community pharmacist
While many earaches can clear up on their own, and most earaches don’t need antibiotics, some require professional attention. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to see a your pharmacist or another health professional:
How your community pharmacist can help
Your local community pharmacist is a great first point of contact if you’re dealing with an earache. They can offer advice on managing the pain, suggest over-the-counter remedies and help you decide if further medical treatment is needed.
If earwax is the culprit, your pharmacist can recommend products to soften and remove the wax safely. For ear infections, they may suggest appropriate pain relief or refer you to your GP for antibiotics if needed.
Your community pharmacist can do more for you
Earaches can be uncomfortable, but in many cases, they’re easy to treat with the right approach. If you’re unsure of how to handle your ear pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to your community pharmacist. They’re here to help with expert advice and treatment options, ensuring you get back to feeling your best as quickly as possible.
