Significance

• Viral infections and trapped moisture are two common causes of earaches. Distinguishing between the two helps physicians to begin the correct course of treatment.
  
  

Types

• Otitis media and otitis externa are the two main types of earaches. Otitis media is an infection of the Eustachian tube caused by blocked fluid due to congestion from a virus or other illness. Otitis externa is often referred to "swimmer's ear," caused by moisture, resulting in the growth of bacteria or fungi.
  
  

Time Frame

• Otitis media earaches tend to resolve on their own within two to three days. Most often treatment is not prescribed, unless the infection is spreading or becomes worse, then a course of antibiotics may be prescribed for a duration of 10 days. Ear drops may be prescribed for otitis externa for a duration of 7 to 10 days.
  
  

Considerations

• Keeping the ears clean and dry can help prevent otitis externa earaches. Otitis media earaches have also been attributed to bottle feeding in a supine position.
  
  

Warning

• If the earache causes severe pain accompanied by fever, fluid, pus or blood, seek immediate medical help. A persistent earache may result in hearing loss or a perforated eardrum.