What causes ear pain when yawning?

Ear pain when yawning may be caused by excessive temporomandibular joint activity, imbalanced ear pressure, external otitis, otitis media, or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Symptoms can be improved through reducing joint strain, pressure regulation, and medication. If pain persists or is accompanied by ear discharge or hearing loss, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Excessive temporomandibular joint activity: Opening the mouth too wide during yawning can overstretch the temporomandibular joint, pulling surrounding tissues near the ear and causing temporary pain. It is recommended to control the extent of mouth opening, avoid chewing hard objects, and apply a warm towel to the joint area to relieve discomfort.

2. Imbalanced ear pressure: Poor opening and closing of the Eustachian tube during yawning leads to pressure differences between the inside and outside of the ear, stimulating the eardrum and causing pain. It is advised to gently pinch the nostrils and blow during yawning to promote Eustachian tube ventilation and balance inner ear pressure.

3. External otitis: Inflammation caused by ear canal injury from ear picking or entry of contaminated water can lead to bacterial infection. Pain worsens during yawning due to traction on the inflamed ear canal, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and itching. Patients may use ofloxacin otic solution, cefaclor dispersible tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Otitis media: Middle ear inflammation secondary to upper respiratory tract infections can irritate the eardrum. Changes in middle ear pressure during yawning intensify pain, often associated with ear fullness and muffled hearing. It is recommended to use amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium granules, phenol-glycerin ear drops, or Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid under medical supervision to relieve discomfort.

5. Eustachian tube dysfunction: Nasal or pharyngeal inflammation can block the Eustachian tube, preventing normal airflow to regulate middle ear pressure during yawning, resulting in pain along with nasal congestion and tinnitus. Patients may follow medical advice to use mometasone furoate nasal spray, Biyuan Tongqiao granules, or cefuroxime axetil tablets to improve symptoms.

Maintain clean and dry ears, avoid frequent ear picking, stay away from noisy environments, eat a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, drink plenty of water, and prevent respiratory infections to reduce triggers of ear discomfort.