Ear infections are a common ailment, and they can affect people of all ages. They often bring symptoms like earaches, pain, fever, and difficulty hearing– but can they also cause jaw pain? In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between ear infection and jaw pain so you can seek the appropriate medical care when necessary.
For same-day ear infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our board-certified medical providers can diagnose your symptoms and plan treatment for a faster recovery. Simply walk-in or check-in online to plan your visit in advance!
Ear Infection: Causes and Symptoms
Before we explain the connection between ear infections and jaw pain, it’s important to understand the causes and symptoms of the condition. Ear infections, medically referred to as otitis media, occur when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to the presence of bacteria or viruses. These infections can be painful and cause a range of symptoms depending on the severity.
Common ear infection symptoms include:
- Earache & pain
- Hearing loss
- Fever
- Dizziness
- Impaired balance
Can an Ear Infection Cause Jaw Pain?
The ear and jaw are anatomically connected, which can sometimes lead to the sensation of jaw pain during the course of an ear infection. The Eustachian tube is a narrow passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. Its primary function is to equalize pressure. When an ear infection occurs, this tube can become blocked which creates pressure imbalances. This imbalance can extend to the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. So simply put, yes, an ear infection can cause a secondary pain that can be felt in the jaw. Additionally, inflammation is a common response to an infection. When the ear becomes inflamed, nearby tissues can also be affected. Swelling in the ear region can put pressure on the jaw joint, leading to discomfort or pain.
Treatment and Prevention
The primary focus of treatment should address the underlying ear infection. It’s important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing jaw pain accompanied by earaches. While it’s possible the pain is linked to the infection, it’s also possible there are other underlying issues at hand– like dental problems or TMD. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial ear infection. Pain relievers and warm compresses can further help alleviate jaw discomfort. To prevent ear infections, be sure to practice good hygiene and avoid inserting cotton swabs into your ear canal. Maintain proper ear protection if you swim regularly to avoid external irritants. Additionally, stay up-to-date on recommended vaccinations.
Get Ear Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
If you or a loved one is experiencing ear infection symptoms, come visit us at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth for care. Managing the underlying infection is crucial, and our providers can refer you to a specialist if anything more severe is detected. Our team of licensed medical providers can diagnose and treat ear infections on a walk-in basis. The clinic is open seven days a week. If you have any additional questions about ear infection treatment, or other urgent care services we provide, please call us at (908) 677-5900.
