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Ear pain and a possible ear infection

Ear pain can be a symptom of many ear problems. Ear pain may occur when pressure builds up in the space behind the eardrum (middle ear) because of a temporarily blocked eustachian tube. The increased pressure can usually be relieved by swallowing, which opens up the eustachian tube. An external ear injury can cause moderate to severe pain.

If the pain is severe or does not go away, a visit to a health professional is usually needed to determine if an ear infection is present.

Note:

In young children, pulling at the ears without other symptoms may not be a reliable sign of an ear infection.
Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD
- Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Donald R. Mintz, MD
- Otolaryngology
Last Updated February 13, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 13, 2008
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