You are here:
Audiology/Otolaryngology/Ear Pain
Advertisement
Question
I'm a 42 yr old male. I get ear pain on occasion in my right ear- lasts for 1-2 days and then its completely gone, and may not reappear for months. When it hurts, it comes on suddenly as a dull ache behind the ear and throughout the flesh around the concha - hurts much worse when touched. The pain isn't inside the canal or middle ear. I was checked by an ENT and he couldn't find anything wrong. Of course by the time i get to him, the pain is gone. It comes and goes every few months.
THE QUESTION IS: What could cause this pain a should i be worried about?
Hi Mike,
The good news is that the ENT couldn't find anything "wrong." My suggestion would be to consult a dentist who specializes in Temporal Mandibular Joint disorders (TMJ). This can sometimes cause the symptoms you describe.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.
Expertise
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.
Experience
I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.
Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, -
American Speech Language Hearing Association, -
Hearing Loss Association of America
Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000.
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology)
Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.