Causes of Ear Pain and How to Treat It

September 20, 2026 ​

Ear pain can be hard to ignore. Maybe it's a dull ache that's been bothering you all day, a sharp pain that seemed to come out of nowhere, or a feeling of pressure that just will not go away. Whatever it feels like, you are probably wondering: why does my ear hurt?

The answer is not always obvious. Ear pain can have many causes, from an ear infection or built-up earwax to sinus pressure, jaw problems, or even a toothache. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common causes of ear pain, what you can do for relief, and when it might be time to talk to a hearing care professional.

Common Causes of Ear Pain

Ear pain does not always mean there is something wrong inside the ear itself. Because the ears share nerve pathways with nearby areas like the jaw, teeth, and throat, pain can sometimes travel or feel like it is coming from somewhere it is not. Here are some of the most common reasons your ear might hurt:

1. Ear Infections

Ear infections are one of the better-known causes of ear pain. A middle ear infection develops in the space behind the eardrum, often after a cold, flu, or other respiratory illness causes swelling and fluid buildup. Although ear infections are especially common in children, adults can get them too.

Not every ear infection requires antibiotics, so it is important to have ongoing or severe symptoms evaluated rather than trying to diagnose the problem yourself.

2. Swimmer's Ear

Did your ear pain start after swimming, bathing, or spending time in the water? Swimmer's ear could be the culprit. Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear canal that can develop when moisture stays trapped inside the ear, creating an environment where bacteria can grow.

Swimmer's ear often requires prescription ear drops, so contact a health care provider if you think you may have it. And resist the urge to reach for a cotton swab—putting objects inside the ear can irritate the ear canal, push wax deeper, or even cause injury.

3. Earwax Buildup

A plugged-up, painful ear? Earwax could be to blame. Earwax normally helps protect your ears, but sometimes too much can build up and block the ear canal.

It may be tempting to try to dig the wax out yourself, but cotton swabs and other objects can push it farther into the ear. If you suspect earwax is causing your symptoms, a professional can take a look and recommend the safest way to remove it.

4. Colds, Allergies, and Sinus Pressure

Ever notice your ears start bothering you when your nose is stuffed up? Your ears, nose, and throat are closely connected. Small passageways called Eustachian tubes help regulate pressure inside your middle ears. When you have a cold, allergies, or sinus congestion, those tubes can become swollen or blocked.

In some cases, fluid can also become trapped behind the eardrum and contribute to an ear infection.

5. Changes in Air Pressure

If your ears have ever hurt during airplane takeoff or landing, you have experienced pressure-related ear pain. Rapid changes in altitude can create a temporary pressure difference between your middle ear and the air around you. The same thing can happen while scuba diving.

Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum can often help your ears adjust. If the pain is severe, does not improve after the pressure change is over, or is accompanied by significant hearing changes, it is worth getting checked out.

6. Jaw Problems

Here is one that might surprise you: sometimes ear pain is not coming from the ear at all. Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, sit just in front of your ears and allow your jaw to move when you talk, chew, and yawn. Problems with these joints can cause pain that feels remarkably similar to an earache.

Clenching or grinding your teeth can also contribute to jaw-related ear discomfort.

7. Dental or Throat Problems

A toothache, sore throat, or tonsillitis can sometimes cause pain that feels like it is coming from your ear. That is because the nerves in your ears are connected with other areas of your head and neck. When pain starts somewhere else but is felt in the ear, it is called referred pain.

If your ear pain comes with significant tooth pain, jaw swelling, persistent throat symptoms, or trouble swallowing, a medical or dental provider can help determine where the pain is actually coming from.

What Can You Do for Ear Pain at Home?

The best treatment for ear pain depends on what is causing it. But if your symptoms are mild, there are a few things you can try for temporary relief.

• Try a warm compress: Placing a warm cloth against the outside of the ear may help soothe discomfort.
• Rest and stay hydrated: This can be especially helpful if your ear pain is connected to a cold or other respiratory illness.
• Consider an over-the-counter pain reliever: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help manage discomfort when they are safe for you and taken according to package directions.
• Leave your ears alone: Avoid cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects inside the ear canal.

When Is Ear Pain a Sign You Should See a Hearing Care Professional?

A mild earache may sometimes go away on its own, especially when it is connected to temporary congestion or changes in air pressure. But some symptoms should not be ignored.

Babies and young children may need medical attention sooner because they are not always able to explain what hurts or how they are feeling. If something is stuck in the ear, avoid trying to dig it out yourself, especially if there is bleeding or drainage, or the pain is severe.

Can Ear Pain Affect Your Hearing?

Sometimes. Fluid behind the eardrum, an ear infection, or impacted earwax can all make sounds seem quieter or muffled. In many cases, hearing improves once the underlying problem is treated. But if your hearing still seems different after the pain, congestion, or infection has cleared, it is worth paying attention.

A hearing evaluation can help determine whether there has been a lasting change in your hearing and what your next steps should be.

Don't Ignore What Your Ears Are Telling You

Ear pain is common, but that does not mean you should simply put up with it. Whether the cause is an infection, earwax, sinus pressure, jaw trouble, or something else entirely, paying attention to your symptoms can help you know when it is time to get help.

*Some restrictions and limitations may apply (including, without limitation, additional terms and conditions made available by Beltone from time to time, participating locations, and applicable professional service fees or other charges in connection with tests, evaluations, and/or screenings).

Note: This blog does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your primary health care provider before making decisions that could impact your health.

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