You cannot ignore earaches. They can be a symptom of a developing cold or simply that, an ear infection. But how can one get the right treatment without figuring out the truth? Let’s start here.

When Earache is a Symptom of a Cold

When there is a cold, the eardrums can get inflamed by the infection.

But this pain, often characterized by a dull, sharp, and burning ache, go away with the cold. Most colds are caused by viruses; so if you have an earache during a cold, you will have to treat the cold symptoms. An earache, in this case, can only be eased.

The good news is that once the cold goes, so will the pain.

However, in some cases, the initial viral infection can make way for a second infection. Bacteria can cause pus and fluid to build up in the ear near the eardrum. While the symptoms may resemble that of a cold, this infection is characterized by an intense and sharper pain that comes and goes.

When an Earache is from an Ear Infection

This kind of infection is called acute otitis media (AOM) and it is rather different than a cold earache:

1. The cold goes but the pain does not go away.
2. There is a partial hearing loss. Most people say they hear as if an earplug has been inserted into their ears.
3. AOM can bring on fever.
4. The pain (ouch!) is quite intense.
5. Some people also report difficulty sleeping.
6. Dizziness

If you go to a doctor, your doctor will look for the following signs to diagnose it as an ear infection:

1. Bulging eardrum due to the accumulated pus and fluid
2. A less responsive eardrum
3. Some signs of hearing loss
4. Cloudiness of the eardrum

Post-Infection Treatment

Ear infections are treated with antibiotics but in some cases, the fluids may continue to remain behind the eardrum. This may last for a few months and is part of the healing process.

However, if you still have problems persisting after a couple of months, you should see your doctor for hearing tests.

In most cases, earaches do not last forever and the pain can be easily relieved.