Otalgia digital illustration

Otalgia Save

ICD-10 code: H92.0

Chapter: Diseases of the ear and mastoid process

Understanding Otalgia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Ear pain, also known as otalgia, is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It can be a sharp, dull, or burning pain that may occur in one or both ears. Otalgia can be caused by a variety of factors, including ear infections, injuries, or conditions that affect the ear canal, ear drum, or middle ear. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at otalgia, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

  1. Causes of Otalgia

    2. There are many possible causes of otalgia, including:

    • Ear infections
    • Injuries to the ear
    • Wax buildup
    • Ear drum rupture
    • Temperomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
    • Referred pain from the throat or jaw
    • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
    • Ear canal infections or inflammation
  2. Symptoms of Otalgia

    3. The most common symptom of otalgia is pain in the ear. Other symptoms may include:

    • Itching or irritation in the ear canal
    • Fluid or pus drainage from the ear
    • Difficulty hearing or ringing in the ear
    • Fever or headache (in some cases)
  3. Treatment of Otalgia

    4. The treatment for otalgia depends on the underlying cause of the pain. In some cases, the pain may go away on its own without treatment. However, if the pain is severe or lasts for more than a few days, it’s important to see a doctor. Some common treatments for otalgia include:

    • Antibiotics (for ear infections)
    • Pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
    • Ear drops (for wax buildup or ear canal infections)
    • Surgery (in rare cases, such as for a ruptured ear drum)
  4. Prevention of Otalgia

    5. There are some things you can do to prevent otalgia, such as: