What could cause sudden pain in the right ear?
Generally, sudden pain inside the right ear may be caused by conditions such as auricular herpes zoster, acute otitis media, or tympanitis. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Auricular Herpes Zoster
In patients with auricular herpes zoster, if the virus affects the trigeminal nerve, it can cause sharp, stabbing pain in the ear. Antiviral therapy is typically recommended. Non-steroidal medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets or ketorolac tromethamine tablets may be used under medical guidance.
2. Acute Otitis Media
Acute otitis media is primarily caused by bacterial infection. Typical symptoms include ear pain, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Some patients may also experience chills and fever. Oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules or cefradine capsules may be prescribed. Additionally, topical antibiotic ear drops—such as ofloxacin ear drops or lomefloxacin hydrochloride ear drops—are often used in combination treatment.
3. Tympanitis
Typical symptoms of tympanitis include sudden severe ear pain, hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear. Microwave therapy is a commonly used physical treatment method; it applies heat generated by the device to the affected area, improving blood circulation and enhancing drug effectiveness. Oral medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefdinir capsules may be taken as directed by a physician. If tympanitis is severe and leads to tympanic membrane perforation, surgical repair of the eardrum (tympanoplasty) may be required.
In addition, other conditions such as pharyngitis, nasopharyngeal masses, or middle ear tumors may also cause sudden pain inside the right ear. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment to avoid delays that could lead to serious complications.