Ear Pain
What it is
Ear pain can occur inside or around the ear. It may get worse when the jaw moves or when pressure is applied to the small bump in front of the ear opening (tragus).
What you can do at home
What to do
- Regularly clean objects that are placed in the ears, such as earbuds and hearing aids (according to the manufacturer’s instructions).
- Always dry the outside of the ear thoroughly after showering or swimming.
To relieve pain
- Apply heat or cold to the ear, whichever feels better.
- Apply a cold compress for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours. Use a cold compress, such as an ice pack, a bag of frozen vegetables, or a reusable cold pack.
- Or apply heat for 20 to 30 minutes, 4 times a day. Use a damp towel warmed in the microwave, a warm compress, or a hot-water bottle.
- Always place a cloth between the ear and the heat or cold source to protect the skin.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
If fluid is draining from the ear
- Gently clean the outside of the ear with a tissue. Discard the tissue and wash your hands afterwards.
- Lie on the side of the affected ear to help the fluid drain.
- Keep the ear dry.
Avoid
- Do not allow water to enter the ear.
- Do not use cotton swabs to clean the ear.
- Do not block the ear canal.
- Do not place anything in the ear, such as a hearing aid, earplug, or earbud, until it has healed.
When to seek medical attention
Fever, even after taking medication
Hearing loss, despite following the recommended advice
Ear pain or a feeling of pressure or blockage that gets worse or does not improve after 48 hours, despite following the recommended advice
Persistent dizziness or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Bruising on the outside of the ear
Fluid or blood draining from the ear
For a person aged 75 years and older:
difficulty carrying out one or two activities of daily living, such as preparing meals or bathing
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Rapid changes in the person’s condition, such as:
- unusual fatigue (drowsiness) or difficulty staying awake
- reduced responsiveness to what is happening around them
- confusion, agitation, or unusual behaviour
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
- reduced appetite or thirst
- difficulty carrying out normal daily activities
Severe headache with a stiff neck, vomiting, and sensitivity to light
Persistent drainage of pus (green fluid), blood, or clear fluid from the ear
Swelling, redness, or warmth behind the ear
Sudden weakness or numbness in the face
Severe, persistent dizziness
Sudden, significant hearing loss
Severe ear pain that does not go away
Fever is present in people at higher risk:
- weakened immune system (immunocompromised)
- pregnancy
- babies younger than 3 months of age