Ear Pain and Hearing Loss

When ear pain and hearing loss occur together, it usually indicates an underlying condition that needs attention. While many causes are easily treatable, some require prompt medical care.

Common causes

• Middle ear infection (otitis media) — infection behind the eardrum causes pressure, pain, and muffled hearing. Common in children but also affects adults. May be accompanied by fever.
• Outer ear infection (otitis externa) — infection of the ear canal, often called "swimmer's ear." Causes pain (especially when touching the ear), discharge, and sometimes reduced hearing.
• Ear wax impaction — hard, impacted wax can press against the ear canal or eardrum, causing discomfort and muffled hearing.
• Perforated eardrum — a hole in the eardrum can cause sudden pain, hearing loss, and sometimes discharge. May result from infection, trauma, or sudden pressure changes.
• Foreign body — particularly in children, objects in the ear canal can cause pain and hearing blockage.
• TMJ disorders — jaw joint problems can cause referred pain to the ear and may be accompanied by a sense of muffled hearing.

When to see a doctor

See your GP or seek urgent care if you have:

• Severe or worsening ear pain
• Discharge from the ear (especially if bloody or foul-smelling)
• Sudden hearing loss
• Pain and hearing loss after an injury or trauma
• Fever alongside ear pain
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days without improvement

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause:

• Ear infections — may resolve on their own or require antibiotic or antifungal ear drops
• Ear wax — professional removal by microsuction or irrigation
• Perforated eardrum — most heal on their own within 6–8 weeks; keep the ear dry
• TMJ disorders — may be managed with jaw exercises, a bite guard, or dental referral

Do not insert anything into the ear canal to try to relieve pain or remove objects yourself. Always seek professional help.