Ear Pain Treatment

Accurate diagnosis and relief for ear pain in children and adults.

Prompt, Effective Care for Ear Pain

Ear pain can be sharp, dull, or throbbing and it often comes on suddenly. While it’s especially common in children, adults can also experience discomfort due to infections, pressure changes, or other medical issues.

At Mesa Family Physicians, we evaluate the cause of your ear pain and provide same-day care to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

We treat ear pain related to:

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Ear infections (outer, middle, or inner ear)

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Sinus or throat infections

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Fluid buildup behind the eardrum

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Allergies or congestion

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Injury or pressure from air travel

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Wax buildup or blockage

Common Signs of Ear Pain

Ear pain can originate in the ear itself or from nearby areas such as the jaw, throat, or sinuses. Understanding the source helps guide the best treatment.

✔ Middle ear infections (otitis media) – Often caused by bacteria or viruses, especially after a cold or respiratory infection.

✔ Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) – An outer ear canal infection often caused by water exposure or bacteria.

✔ Eustachian tube dysfunction – Pressure buildup due to allergies or sinus issues.

✔ Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues – Jaw tension or misalignment can radiate pain to the ear.

✔ Barotrauma – Changes in pressure from flying or diving.

✔ Earwax impaction – Hardened wax can press against the eardrum and cause discomfort.

✔ Referred pain – Sore throats, tooth infections, or sinus issues may trigger ear pain.

Our Diagnostic Approach

How We Evaluate Ear Pain

During your visit, we’ll examine your ears using an otoscope to look for signs of infection, fluid, redness, or blockage. We’ll also ask about associated symptoms like hearing loss, fever, sinus pressure, or recent illness.

If necessary, we may check your throat, jaw, and nasal passages to rule out other causes. Based on the findings, we’ll recommend a personalized treatment plan that may include antibiotics, pain relief, decongestants, or home care strategies.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Know When Ear Pain Needs a Doctor’s Attention

Ear pain isn’t always serious, but in some cases, it requires medical care to prevent hearing loss, spread of infection, or ongoing discomfort.

You should schedule a visit if your ear pain:

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Lasts more than a couple of days – Persistent pain may indicate infection or fluid buildup

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Is severe or sudden – Intense or sharp pain should be evaluated promptly

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Is accompanied by fever or drainage – May signal infection or a ruptured eardrum

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Involves hearing loss or ringing – These symptoms could suggest inner ear involvement

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Follows a cold, sinus infection, or recent travel – These often trigger ear pressure or inflammation

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Occurs in a child – Children are more likely to develop ear infections and may not be able to express their symptoms clearly

Why Choose Mesa Family Physicians?

Patients trust Mesa Family Physicians for reliable care, dedicated providers, and a full range of services for every stage of life.  We focus on long-term wellness and strong doctor-patient relationships, so you always feel heard, supported, and cared for.