What is an Ear Ache?

An ear ache occurs when the otitis media, or the middle ear, becomes inflamed. Most often this is because of an infection. These infections can occur in one ear, or in both ears. Most ear aches occur in children, but adults can also get them. Ear aches are the most common cause of hearing loss in children. It is important to treat ear aches as soon as possible as the infection can spread to other parts of the head.

How the Ear Works

The ear is composed of three main parts, the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear is the part most people can see, and this is the part that collects sound. The middle ear is a cavity filled with air that separates the outer ear from the inner ear. When air strikes the eardrum, it causes vibration. These vibrations are transferred to the inner ear, which converts the vibrations to electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Ear Ache Causes

When the tubes of the middle ear become blocked, from a cold, allergy or respiratory infection, the presence of bacteria or a virus can lead to the accumulation of fluid. The buildup puts pressure on the middle ear and causes ear aches, redness and swelling. Hearing problems often result when the ear cannot vibrate properly.

Pus and mucus that has built up in the ear may be present even after the infection has passed. This can result in a chronic ear infection and in a loss of hearing.

Each Ache Symptoms

Ear aches can have many symptoms, and in the case of infants and toddlers, the symptoms may not be easily describable. When looking for an ear infection, look for the following symptoms in young children:

• pulling or scratching at the ear
• hearing problems 
• ear drainage 
• crying, irritability 
• vomiting 
• fever 

Ear aches can also be characterized by symptoms like:

• pain in the ear.
• feeling of fullness or pressure 
• hearing problems 
• dizziness, loss of balance 
• nausea, vomiting 
• ear drainage 
• fever 

Ear Ache Treatments

Ear aches can often be cured with proper medication and home treatment. However, surgery is another option, especially for people who suffer from chronic ear aches. In some cases a physician will recommend a procedure called myringotomy. This procedure involves a small surgical incision in the eardrum to help drainage and relieve pain. This incision often heals very quickly, and can also be kept open with a tube to promote drainage.

Some patients may also experience ear aches because of adenoids and tonsil problems. In these cases, a physician may recommend that one or both are removed. This procedure can be performed at the same as a ventilation tube is inserted.