How to Stop Ear Pressure and Pain

Ear pressure refers to the sensation of stuffiness and fullness of the ear. This occurs when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked or stops functioning correctly. And it can be pretty uncomfortable for you or your loved one!

The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose. It’s in charge of balancing air pressure on both sides of the eardrum. It also helps in clearing middle ear secretions.

Ear pain, on the other hand, is common among children (but also happens to adults). The pain that begins inside the ear is known as primary otalgia. Pain from the outer part of the ear is known as secondary otalgia.

Ear pain can feel sharp, dull, or burning; and may be temporary or long-lasting. You may feel it in only one ear, but sometimes in both ears. Follow along as Hearing Associates of Las Vegas explain the causes of ear pressure and pain and what you can do to feel better.  

Common causes of ear pressure and pain

There are several reasons for ear pressure and pain. Here are some of the most common reasons for ear pain and pressure and what you can do to relieve them. 

Ear infection

Ear infections such as swimmers ear are typically caused by bacteria in the water inside the ear. They often lead to swelling and fluid buildup, which causes ear pressure. Children are often the victims of painful infections.

Wear earplugs when in the water to prevent water from getting in. But if water gets in, you can use a hair dryer on low to carefully dry the ear. Non-prescription and prescription ear drops can also help dry the ear and clear the infection. 

Sinusitis

Sinusitis occurs when the hollow spaces in your face become inflamed. This is often caused by a viral infection and, in some cases, bacteria. You may have a headache, runny nose, facial pain, and congestion in the nose and ears. Saline rinses, decongestants, and pain medication may help. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics. 

A Cold

Congestion and nasal inflammation usually come with a cold and affect the Eustachian tube. This prevents them from adequately equalizing pressure in the middle ear. Sounds may be muffled. As with sinusitis, decongestants, saline rinses, and pain medication can help until the cold passes.  

Earwax Buildup

Although earwax is naturally produced by the body to protect the inner parts of the ear, the buildup of too much earwax can lead to ear canal blockage, causing ear pressure (and hearing loss). Let one of our hearing specialists show you safe and effective ways to manage your ear wax. 

Injury, Dental issues and Teeth Grinding

Inserting a cotton swab, finger, or dangerous objects inside your ear often causes severe ear pain. Dental issues like cavities and periodontal disease can lead to ear and jaw pain. See your dentist if you suspect dental problems are giving you ear pain.  A deep cleaning will usually resolve the issue. 

Teeth grinding can lead to a TMJ disorder and pain. Resting your jaw and wearing a brace or splint to restrict jaw movement are helpful. Surgery may be required in severe cases.   

Signs and Symptoms of Ear Pain

There are several signs you can look out for in yourself or a child:

•  Hearing loss- Your hearing may seem muffled.
•  Drainage from the ear- can be caused by an infection or ruptured ear drum. 
•  Increase in crying, irritability, and tugging at the ear (children) 
• Jaw pain or stiffness- Ear pain and jaw pain may occur from TMJ disorder. Primarily found in adults.

The interconnected world of the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)

To understand why you experience ear pressure and pain, you must understand how the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) work and function together.

The ear, nose, and throat are part of the upper respiratory system. Because of the connection between the ear, nose, and throat, they function as one unit or body, with each part supporting the whole. A disturbance in one can cause a problem in or the other. 

For example, it’s rare to have ear infections without experiencing problems with your throat or nose. You may have post-nasal drip, a sore throat, or a runny nose with your ear infection.

How can Sinus pressure lead to Ear pain?

In between your throat and middle ear lies the tiny Eustachian tube. It’s responsible for connecting these body parts and ensuring that pressure is equalized in your middle ear. For example, when you sneeze, yawn, or swallow, this tube opens up like a gas valve to release some pressure.

However, when your sinuses are blocked, it can lead to difficulty in passing out air from your eustachian tube. This often leads to ear pain, pressure, or fullness in your head. You might even find it hard to hear.

Importance of regular hearing tests

When was the last time you took a hearing test? Perhaps you haven’t had one before.

Hearing tests are one of the necessary health checks you shouldn’t ignore if you want to preserve your hearing and lifestyle.  It may be time for a hearing evaluation if you have ear pain or pressure, especially with hearing loss. 

By detecting hearing problems early, you can find solutions before they escalate into huge problems. Other essential reasons you shouldn’t skip a hearing test include the following. 

Keeping track of changes to your ear

Regular hearing tests keep track of minor or major changes to your hearing. You can compare the previous results to see if your hearing loss is progressing or staying the same. 

Improve the quality of life

By detecting conditions affecting your ear, you have the chance to improve the quality of your life. For instance, a hearing aid can improve the lives of some people experiencing hearing loss. This enables you to participate in everyday activities better without feeling self-conscious about hearing loss.  

Detect other health problems

When you get regular hearing tests, a hearing professional may detect other health problems affecting your life. 

If you have ear pressure or pain, reach out to us at Hearing Associates of Las Vegas or call (702)-857-8188 to book an appointment.