What causes pain in the ear canal?

Under normal circumstances, ear pain may be related to factors such as earwax blockage, ear canal pressure, otitis media, external otitis, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Earwax Blockage

Excessive earwax in the ear canal may cause blockage, pressing against the ear canal walls and potentially leading to ear pain or discomfort. It's important to maintain ear hygiene—gently wipe the outer ear with a damp towel, but avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal.

2. Ear Canal Pressure

Prolonged use of headphones or earplugs, or sleeping in positions that compress the ear, may lead to pressure on the ear canal, impairing blood circulation and causing ear pain and discomfort. It is advisable to avoid wearing headphones or earplugs for extended periods and to pay attention to sleeping posture to prevent putting pressure on the ears.

3. Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)

Acute otitis media is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections. The inflammatory response may produce pus, increasing pressure in the middle ear and stimulating the auditory nerve, resulting in ear pain. Symptoms may include fever, ear discharge, and hearing loss. Treatment under a doctor’s guidance may include medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride ear drops, or lomefloxacin hydrochloride ear drops.

4. External Otitis (Outer Ear Infection)

Infection or injury to the skin of the ear canal may lead to external otitis. Inflammation can stimulate the nerves in the ear canal skin, causing ear pain. Symptoms may include redness and swelling of the ear canal, increased earwax, and itching. Patients may use medications such as erythromycin ointment, ofloxacin ear drops, or ciprofloxacin hydrochloride ear drops as directed by a physician.

5. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is typically associated with dislodged otoliths (ear crystals). When these particles enter the semicircular canals of the inner ear, they may interfere with balance sensors, triggering the aforementioned symptoms. This condition may be accompanied by intense rotational vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment under medical supervision may include betahistine mesylate tablets, difenidol hydrochloride tablets, or beraprost sodium tablets.

In daily life, avoid excessive ear cleaning with fingers or cotton swabs. Applying a warm, moist towel gently to the ear area for 15–20 minutes at a time may help relieve pain.