The Link Between Ear Infections and Jaw Pain

Title: Ear Infections and Jaw Pain: What You Need to Know

When you think of ear infections, you may think of childhood. Lots of kids come down with ear infections after swapping germs at school or even getting pool water stuck in their ears. But unfortunately, adults can get ear infections, too, and they may be just as painful as they were back then. Add in other symptoms like jaw pain, and it’s twice the trouble.

If you’re unlucky enough to have an ear infection and jaw pain at the same time, you might wonder what’s up—is it just a coincidence, or are the two things related?

According to Philip Chen, MD, FARS, a professor of otolaryngology and rhinology at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, ear infections can indeed cause jaw pain. There are two types of ear infections, middle ear infections, which happen behind the ear drum, and external ear infections, also known as swimmer’s ear, which affect the ear canal—the tube between the outer ear and ear drum. Both kinds can cause jaw pain due to the proximity of the jaw joint to the ear and ear canal.

In addition to ear infections, other conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, parotiditis, dental problems, sinus problems, and problems in other parts of the head and neck can also cause pain in the ear and jaw simultaneously.

Home remedies for jaw pain caused by an ear infection include applying a warm compress, taking over-the-counter pain medicine, avoiding hard foods, wearing a dental guard at night, and gently massaging the jaw to ease muscle tension.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to see a doctor to determine the best course of treatment. In some cases, ear infections and jaw pain may require medical intervention to prevent further complications.