What causes intermittent, sharp pain at the base of one ear, and what should be done about it?

Intermittent sharp pain in the root of one ear may be caused by factors such as mental stress and fatigue, local pressure or irritation, temporomandibular joint disorder, external otitis, or trigeminal neuralgia. Symptoms can be improved through rest, relieving pressure, and medication. If the pain persists or worsens, or is accompanied by redness, swelling, or hearing loss, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Mental Stress and Fatigue: Long-term anxiety and sleep deprivation can lead to nerve tension and dysfunction of nerves around the ear, resulting in episodic sharp pain. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, and relax both mind and body through calming music, meditation, or similar methods to reduce psychological stress.

2. Local Pressure or Irritation: Prolonged side sleeping that compresses the ear root, or frequent pulling on the ear, can impair local blood circulation and cause sharp, intermittent pain. Adjusting sleeping posture to avoid pressure on the affected side and minimizing touching or tugging the ear can help restore normal blood flow.

3. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Poor chewing habits or joint injury can lead to abnormal joint function, causing pain that radiates to the ear root. The pain is typically intermittent and sharp, worsening during mouth opening or chewing. Under medical guidance, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets, or glucosamine sulfate capsules may be used to relieve discomfort.

4. External Otitis: Bacterial infection due to ear picking injuries or exposure to contaminated water can cause inflammation in the external auditory canal, irritating nerves near the ear root and leading to intermittent sharp pain, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and itching in the ear canal. Under medical supervision, treatment may include ofloxacin otic drops, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or ibuprofen suspension to alleviate symptoms.

5. Trigeminal Neuralgia: Compression or inflammatory irritation of the trigeminal nerve causes abnormal electrical discharges, resulting in sharp, lightning-like, episodic pain affecting the ear root area. Patients may take carbamazepine tablets, gabapentin capsules, or mecobalamin tablets as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.

Maintain a regular routine and avoid excessive fatigue. Eat a light diet and avoid hard or difficult-to-chew foods. Minimize local irritation, keep the ears clean and dry, and engage in moderate exercise to strengthen overall health.