Ear Pain

Ear pain is a common symptom of ear infections and certain types of headaches. It typically resolves on its own, but if ear pain persists for more than a few days, identifying the cause is important. At Humble Simple Care, a virtual primary care practice serving people across the state of Kentucky and Virginia, Nicole Isaac, MSN, FNP-C, regularly diagnoses and treats ear pain. To schedule a telehealth appointment for yourself, click the online booking feature today.

What is ear pain?

Ear pain, sometimes called an earache, refers to any discomfort or irritation affecting one or both of your ears. Sometimes, ear pain is caused by an infection, and in other cases it’s due to another condition altogether, such as a headache or sore throat. 

Are there different types of ear pain?

Yes. Ear pain falls into one of two categories:

Primary ear pain

Primary ear pain is caused by something in your ears, such as a buildup of earwax, an ear infection, or a ruptured eardrum.

Secondary ear pain

Secondary ear pain occurs when a condition unrelated to your ears causes pain. This happens when another part of your body shares similar nerve pathways with your ear. In these cases, your brain may interpret the pain as coming from your ears, even if it originates somewhere else. 

When should I see a medical professional about ear pain?

Make an appointment with Nicole if you or your child has ear pain that lasts three days or longer. This is especially true if the ear pain occurs alongside other symptoms, such as a fever, ear drainage, chills, or nausea. 

How is ear pain diagnosed via telemedicine?

Nicole reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain started, what it feels like, and if activities such as lying down or tilting your head worsen it. Next, she completes a virtual exam. Nicole might ask you to gently press on the skin beneath or around your ears to identify sensitive areas. She might also ask you to point your camera at your ear so she can check for swelling or redness.

If these steps don’t provide enough information, Nicole may refer you to a nearby clinic to receive an in-person screening.

How is ear pain treated?

Treatment for ear pain depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Nicole may recommend:

• Antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection
• Antifungal medication if you have a fungal infection
• Corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation
• Applying a heating pad or ice pack
• Elevating your head
• Using over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops

In many cases, at-home care and prescription medication resolve the pain within a few days.

To receive treatment for ear pain, make a telehealth appointment at Humble Simple Care by clicking the online booking feature.