Ear Pain in North Texas

An earache or ear pain can impact patients of all ages and range from dull discomfort to sharp, severe irritation. Earaches are usually caused by an ear infection, inflammation, injury, changes in pressure, water trapped in the ear, or perforated eardrum. Other factors, such as earwax buildup and getting a foreign object stuck inside the ear, can also result in pain. Signs and symptoms of ear discomfort usually include impaired hearing, fluid drainage, muffled hearing, loss of balance, fever, and tugging at the ear. Cross Timbers ENT provides individualized care to Midlothian, Arlington, and Mansfield, TX patients to ensure optimal ear health. Contact our office today to get the relief you need.

In some cases, ear pain can be caused by a secondary condition such as TMJ, neck pain, dental disease, throat pain, or sinus pain. At Cross Timbers ENT, our skilled team can effectively evaluate your ear pain and help diagnose the underlying cause. This can also help our professionals to provide more accurate treatment that is personalized specifically for you. If necessary, we can also refer you to a dental specialist depending on the cause of your ear pain.

At Cross Timbers ENT, our board-certified experts will conduct a series of diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause of your ear pain. These assessments often include a physical exam of the ear with an oto-microscope and an ear pressure test, called a tympanogram. Once a diagnosis has been made, we can review all your treatment options. Treatment of the ear pain will depend on the cause. 

What causes ear pain?

Ear pain, or an earache, can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Earwax buildup
• An injury
• A foreign object in the ear
• Illness or an ear infection
• Changes in air pressure
• Water trapped in the ear
• Dental issues
• Neck, throat, or sinus pain
• TMJ

How can I treat ear pain at home?

There are several ways you can treat ear pain at home:

• Warm or cold compress
• OTC ear drops (some include pain relievers)
• OTC pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, etc.)
• Chewing gum
• Sleeping in an upright position

When should you see the doctor for ear pain?

If you’ve tried home remedies for your ear pain with relief or if the pain worsens after 2 – 3 days, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Other warning signs include:

• Symptoms that last longer than three days
• Fluid coming out of the ear
• A high fever
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Swelling behind the ear
• Weakness in the facial muscles
• Intense ear pain that stops suddenly may be an indication of a ruptured eardrum

The good news is, with professional medical care, ear pain can be improved. If you or your child are suffering from an earache, call Cross Timbers ENT to set up an exam with one of our expert physicians. Our caring team can examine the afflicted ear and provide the therapy you need to regain optimal health. Reach out to any of our locations in Mansfield, Midlothian, or Arlington, TX.