A throbbing earache is a condition that should not be underestimated. This can cause excessive pain to interfere with daily routines. You need to recognize the various causes so that it’s easier to overcome them.
So, what are the triggers for throbbing ear pain? How to handle it? Come on, see the full review below!
There are various causes of throbbing ear pain
Infection is one of the main triggers for throbbing ear pain, especially in the middle and inner ear. Although, there are still several other factors that can bring up the pain. Here are seven causes of throbbing ear pain that you need to know:
1. Otitis media
The first cause of throbbing ear pain is otitis media. This condition occurs when there is an infection where the fluid and tissue in the middle ear (between the eardrum and the tympanic membrane) become inflamed.
In addition to moderate to severe pain, a person with otitis media usually has a stuffy nose and cough a few days before. Sometimes, fever can also occur.
2. Blockage of the eustachian tube
The eustachian tube is a narrow tube that connects the upper throat to the middle ear. This channel regulates incoming air pressure and drains excess fluid from the middle ear.
Blockage of the channel can cause pain and throbbing, usually triggered by an allergic reaction, infection, or changes in pressure due to altitude such as when flying a plane.
When this condition occurs, you not only feel ear pain, but also feel dizzy and a buzzing appears.
3. Problems with the skin
The next cause of throbbing ear pain is skin problems around it. Quoted from Verywell Health, There are three skin conditions that often cause throbbing pain in the ear, namely:
- Dermatitis: Inflammation of the skin which can cause itching and swelling, usually triggered by an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) or other skin problems such as seborrheic or psoriatic dermatitis.
- Preauricular cellulitis: Infection of the skin around the ear which can cause redness, burning and pain. Fever can also sometimes occur.
- Shingles: Lesions appear due to exposure to viruses Varicella zoster. This fluid-filled bag can trigger throbbing pain.
4. Meniere’s disease
Meniere’s disease can cause throbbing pain in the ear. This condition is usually triggered by excess fluid buildup in the inner ear. Although, it is not clear why fluid retention can occur in this area.
Meniere’s disease is often associated with vertigo. This means that people with vertigo are especially prone to throbbing earaches.
Also read: Watch out! These 6 Symptoms of Vertigo Can Interfere with Your Activities
5. Perichondritis
The next cause of ear pain is perichondritis. This condition arises from an infection in the outer ear cartilage, then triggers pain due to swelling and redness of the skin. In fact, sometimes an abscess (like a boil) appears which contains pus.
Without proper treatment, perichondritis can lead to deformed ears (cauliflower ear). This is because the infection can interfere with and stop the blood supply to the cartilage.
Perichondritis usually affects people who have certain autoimmune diseases. Trauma to the cartilage can also be a trigger factor, such as the effects of ear piercings, burns, or injuries after sports.
6. Tumors
Although rare, tumors can cause ear pain, you know. The growth of new tissue in the ear can cause throbbing pain. Nasopharyngeal cancer, for example, can make the ears feel full, ringing, and decrease hearing ability.
Two tumors or noncancerous growths that usually develop in the ear and can be painful include:
- cholesteatoma, namely the growth of new tissue is benign in the middle ear.
- acoustic neuroma, namely the growth of new non-cancerous tissue in the vestibular nerve.
7. Sinusitis
The last cause of throbbing ear pain is sinusitis, which is an infection or inflammation of the cavity behind the nose (lower forehead).
Even if it occurs on the face, it can cause ear discomfort. The pressure given can also make the ear feel full.
How to handle it?
If your ear hurts throbbing, you don’t need to worry and worry. You can do several ways to relieve it, namely by:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and tenderness in the ear. These drugs include ibuprofen, paracetamol, and aspirin.
- Cold compresses can help relieve and soothe inflammation that occurs in the ear. Wrap an ice cube in a clean towel or cloth, then hold it and direct it to the ear area that feels throbbing for 20 minutes.
- Gentle massage of the muscles in the area around the ear can help relieve pain and promote blood flow. For example, massage in the area behind the sore ear, jaw and neck.
- Use garlic. To quote Medical News Today, The antimicrobial compounds in garlic can help fight infections. You can eat it straight or mash it and then apply it on the affected area.
So, those are some of the causes of throbbing ear pain and various ways to overcome them. If the pain doesn’t get better, you don’t need to hesitate to see a doctor, OK?
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