The origins of referred otalgia may be as remote as the cranial cavity and thorax; however, dental disease, tonsillitis, temporomandibular joint disorders and cervical spine pathology represent the most frequent causes. Ear pain may also be the first sign of a head and neck malignancy.
How do you treat referred ear pain?
Once determined, most causes of referred otalgia can be readily treated. Use antibiotics in treating various types of infections (eg, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis). Use antivirals if the causative agent is suspected to be viral, such as in cases associated with herpes zoster or shingles.
Why is thyroid pain referred to the ear?
Because the sensory innervation to the thyroid gland is via the superior and recurrent laryngeal nerves , there have been documented cases of thyroid pathology manifesting as ear pain.
What are the symptoms of otalgia?
The most common of these signs and symptoms are ear fullness sensation, tinnitus, ear pain and vertigo with nystagmus .
What is referred otalgia?
Otalgia is the sensation of pain in the ear , while referred otalgia is pain felt in the ear but originating from a nonotologic source. The rich sensory innervation of the ear derives from four cranial nerves and two cervical nerves which also supply other areas in the head, neck, thorax, and abdomen.
Can the vagus nerve cause ear pain?
Conclusion: This is the first report of vagus neuralgia presenting solely with ear pain. Surgeons should be aware that primary external auditory canal pain can be due to vagus neuralgia via its auricular branch and that such patients can be misdiagnosed with glossopharyngeal or nervus intermedius neuralgias.
Which nerve is responsible for referred pain in ear?
Irritation of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) is the most common cause of referred ear pain.
What can cause ear pain but no infection?
Earaches can happen without an infection. This can occur when air and fluid build up behind the eardrum, causing pain and reduced hearing. This is called serous otitis media.
What can cause ear pain without infection?
- Trauma.
- Improper cleaning of wax from the ear.
- Bacterial infection of the mastoid bone (mastoiditis)
- Tumor.
- Jaw pain.
- Changes in pressure, such as from flying or scuba diving.
Does sinusitis cause ear pain?
A sinus infection can cause fluid to be trapped in the ear behind the eardrum. Bacteria and viruses can grow and can cause an ear infection. It’s especially important to get to the doctor if you’re feeling pain or pressure in the ear.
Can thyroid problems cause ear pain?
The most obvious symptom of subacute thyroiditis is pain in the neck caused by a swollen and inflamed thyroid gland. Sometimes, the pain can spread (radiate) to the jaw or ears .
What are the signs of thyroid infection?
- Low thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) Fatigue. Weight gain. Constipation. ...
- High thyroid hormone levels in the blood (hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxicosis) Anxiety. Trouble sleeping (insomnia) Heart palpitations (fast heart rate) ...
- Tremors.
- Pain in the thyroid.
Can thyroid problems cause ear problems?
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hearing loss , and different thyroid conditions can affect not only hearing loss, but also tinnitus, and balance too.
What is otalgia used for?
It provides sensory innervation for the face, sinuses, palate, and teeth . The auriculotemporal branch of cranial nerve V innervates the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This branch is most commonly implicated in temporomandibular joint disease. Dental and TMJ pathology are common secondary causes of otalgia.
How can you tell the difference between media and otitis externa?
The main symptom of otitis is pain , whether it is otitis externa or otitis media. If it is otitis externa, the pain may increase when the earlobe is pulled, which is generally not the case for otitis media. In young children, the pain can be expressed in these different signs, the child: frequently pulls on the ear.
What is neuralgia pain?
Neuralgia is a stabbing, burning, and often severe pain due to an irritated or damaged nerve . The nerve may be anywhere in the body, and the damage may be caused by several things, including: aging. diseases such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis.
