The ear is generally described in three parts: outer, middle and inner. Different conditions can affect each of these separately or can progressively involve all parts of the ear bone and its surrounding structures.

Pain, especially constant or worsening pain about the ear, is a serious symptom and must be carefully assessed to exclude potentially very dangerous conditions.

Otalgia may be primary (from the ear structures themselves) or referred (from other, generally nearby, structures)

Common sites of referred otalgia (pain travelling to the ear)include:

• the cervical spine (associated neck bones, nerves, muscles and ligaments)
• the jaw joint
• the teeth
• the lymph and salivary glands of the neck (especially the parotid gland)
• the nose and sinuses
• the tonsils, tongue and larynx (voice box)
• structures inside the skull related to the brain and its protective covering(the meninges).

See Relevant Sections (for more information on sources of referred pain)

Ear, Nose and Throat Problems may contribute to Headaches and Migraines so it is important to have them professionally addressed. It is also important to investigate for other potential causes, as many cases of Headaches and Migraines have more than one ingredient.

See Treatments Section-(Ear,Nose,Throat)

Author:
Mr Anthony J. Guiney MBBS FRACS
Ear, Nose, Throat, Head & Neck Surgeon