Suggest Treatment For Pain In Outer Ear

Posted on Wed, 28 Oct 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 Answered on

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had pain in my outer ear (the cartilage part), in my jaw and behind my ear for about two months now. I went to an ENT and he saw nothing, my ears looked perfect. I did feel like I had water in my ear and that has now gone away. I also have popping in that same ear at least everyday. I had a cold about six weeks ago and since my symptoms have not gone away. I went to my dentist and i do have a cavity on that side as well as TMJ and my popping and clicking of my jaw seems to be the worse on that same side as my ear pain. Should I be concerned about this? Can TMJ really cause all this? I do clench my jaw all the time, because I'm really stressed, I don't get enough rest and I'm afraid of dying.

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Krunal Karade (49 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are most probably having eustachian tube blockage & TMJ dysfunction .

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for the query.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

As per your clinical history it appears that you are most probably having
eustachian tube blockage due to cold , allergy & TMJ dysfunction . Your symptoms because of combination of this conditions .
No need to too much concern you will be fine after treatment .

If I were your treating doctor , I would advice
Saline nasal spray or rinse thrice daily ,
Antihistaminic like Tab Claritin at night &
anti inflammatory like Ibuprofen after meal twice daily .

Avoid clenching teeth & sideward movement of tm joint.
Consult psychiatrist for stress relief & medications.

You will get relief . No need to worry .

Hope this information helpful to you .If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj