[47F] Experiencing intermittent left ear pain

What might be happening

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

• Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This is a condition where the tube connecting your middle ear to the back of your throat becomes blocked or doesn't open properly. This can cause a feeling of fullness, pain, or pressure in the ear, and sometimes even hearing loss. However, you've mentioned that you don't have any sensation of fullness or pressure in your ear, which makes this less likely.

  • Treatment typically involves decongestants, antihistamines, or steroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation and promote drainage. In some cases, a procedure to insert tubes in the ear to improve drainage may be recommended.

• Chronic Otitis Media: This is a long-term infection or inflammation of the middle ear. This condition can cause persistent or intermittent ear pain.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection, and in some cases, a procedure to drain fluid from the middle ear may be necessary.

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ): You've mentioned a history of TMJ, which can sometimes cause ear pain, even if it feels like the pain is coming from deep inside the ear. However, you've indicated that you don't believe your current ear pain is related to your TMJ.

  • Treatment for TMJ typically involves pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or a range of non-drug therapies like oral splints or physical therapy.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible conditions that could be causing your symptoms. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Consult a healthcare provider: Given the duration and persistence of your symptoms, it would be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination, ask further questions, and possibly order tests to determine the cause of your ear pain.

2. Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help to manage your ear pain in the short term. However, these should not be used as a long-term solution without consulting a healthcare provider.

3. Stress management: Since you've noted that stress seems to trigger your ear pain, techniques to manage stress may be beneficial. This could include relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe ear pain
• Discharge or bleeding from your ear
• Sudden hearing loss
• Dizziness or problems with balance
• Fever or severe headache

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.