Earache Information, Facts
Otalgia is the medical term for earache. This is characterized by pain in the ears. The ailment can be characterized as primary if the pain originated from the ears. However, if the pain originated from outside the ears, then it is called as “referred otalgia”.
The common misconception is that otalgia is just caused by problems within the ear. The truth is it can be experienced even when the ear is completely healthy and is not having any problems at all. Such is the case in ailments located within the head, like sinusitis, inflamed tonsils, throat cancer, impacted teeth, migraine, and infections of the pharynx and nose.
Causes Of Ear Pain
The most common cause of earache is the accumulation of wax in the ear canal. This wax will harden, and once it solidifies, it will block the path of hearing, causing impairment to one’s auditory ability. Aside from earwax accumulation, the following are the other causes for earache:
- Improper means of cleaning. The more common means of cleaning is by using a small stick with a piece of cotton attached to its end. Despite that this is commonly used, this process of cleaning the ear is more harmful than beneficial because it will only push the wax, dirt, skin peelings, and other particles deeper into the ear canal where it accumulates and cause infection.
- An infection to the nose such as colds can cause the onset of earache.
- Sore throat
- Trauma
- Fungus growth in the ear
- Damage to the eardrum
- Ear disease
- Presence of insect or insects in the ear.
- Seeping of fluids or liquid into the ear especially after taking a bath or due to improper drying methods.
- Bacterial infection acquired through swimming in polluted waters.
How To Treat Otalgia (Earache)
Before treatment can be given, the primary cause of the ailment must first be determined. This will ensure that the right treatment can be given. Remember that otalgia does not always point to ear infections but could have other underlying causes.
- Often, to help the patient deal with the pain, analgesics and pain relievers will be prescribed by the physician.
- There are also home remedies that can be used to treat the problem. Options include using herbs like chamomile and belladonna.