Pain in front of the ear
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, pain in front of the ear may be caused by trauma, external otitis, otitis media, folliculitis, lymphadenitis, or other factors. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. In addition, congenital preauricular fistula can also cause pain in front of the ear. If discomfort is experienced, prompt medical evaluation and targeted treatment at a hospital are recommended to avoid delaying the condition.
Generally, pain in front of the ear may be caused by trauma, external otitis, otitis media, folliculitis, lymphadenitis, and other factors. Patients are advised to follow medical advice for symptomatic treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Trauma
If the area in front of the ear sustains trauma such as abrasions or lacerations, it can damage the skin, mucous membranes, or nerves, leading to pain. The patient may use iodophor for disinfection, and symptoms usually resolve on their own over time.
2. External Otitis
This is primarily caused by pathogenic bacterial infection, which damages epidermal cells and causes inflammatory infiltration of the external auditory canal and surrounding skin, resulting in swelling and discharge. In severe cases, pain may radiate to the area in front of the ear. Treatment may include medications such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets or levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets under a doctor's guidance.
3. Otitis Media
Otitis media refers to inflammation of the middle ear. Clinically, it mainly presents with ear pain, watery discharge, or pus from the ear canal. Mild cases may be treated under medical supervision with ofloxacin ear drops or cefuroxime axetil tablets. Severe cases require prompt hospitalization for treatment.
4. Folliculitis
Folliculitis occurs when bacteria, fungi, or other factors damage hair follicles, altering their structure and causing symptoms such as pain and itching. Mild cases may be treated under medical supervision with topical medications such as mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid sodium ointment.
5. Lymphadenitis
When viruses invade surrounding soft tissues, they may enter the preauricular lymph nodes via lymphatic vessels or the bloodstream, causing local congestion, swelling, and pain. Treatment may include medications such as cephalexin capsules or roxithromycin capsules under a doctor’s guidance.
In addition, congenital preauricular fistula can also cause pain in front of the ear. If discomfort occurs, seek timely medical evaluation and targeted treatment to avoid delaying the condition.
