[20F] With ear pain and sharp intermittent pain

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female has been experiencing ear pain for almost 3 days. The pain is described as sharp and intermittent, occurring in the middle of the ear and around the ear. The severity of the pain is rated as 6 out of 10, escalating to 8 during sharp pain episodes. The patient reports that the pain began after using a Q-tip in the ear. There is no discharge, changes in hearing, or recent upper respiratory infections. The patient takes baths, which may involve water exposure to the ears. There is no history of recent trauma or injury to the ear, and no recent changes in mood or stress levels. The patient has not recently stopped taking any medications, particularly antipsychotic medications. No known allergies or chronic conditions reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your ear pain:

Ear Infection (Otitis Media or Otitis Externa): Ear infections can cause sharp pain in the middle ear and around the ear. Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear, while otitis externa, also known as swimmer's ear, affects the outer ear canal. Both can be painful, especially when aggravated by inserting objects like Q-tips.
- Treatment typically involves pain management with over-the-counter pain relievers and, if necessary, antibiotics prescribed by a doctor for bacterial infections.
Earwax Impaction: Using Q-tips can sometimes push earwax deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction and discomfort.
- Treatment may involve using ear drops to soften the wax or having a healthcare professional remove it safely.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This occurs when the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose becomes blocked, often due to allergies or a cold, leading to pressure and pain.
- Treatment can include decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal sprays to relieve the blockage.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment, here are some steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms:

Avoid Using Q-tips: Refrain from inserting Q-tips or any objects into your ear canal, as this can worsen the pain or cause injury.
Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to the affected ear to help reduce pain and discomfort.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage the pain.
Keep Ears Dry: After bathing, gently dry your ears with a towel and avoid getting water in them to prevent further irritation.
Use MDandMe: Track your symptoms, pain levels, and any changes using the MDandMe app. This can help you monitor your progress and provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.