Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 3/15/2009

Question
I'm 26 I have severe ear pain in my right ear constantly for a month now. I've been to my primary physican 3 times he gave me antibiotic, nasal inhaler, steroids, ibuprophen, and ear drops during the first two visits. The third visit he didn't know what else to due for me and sent me to an E.N.T. He said my ear is fine and that it was my jaw causing the pain and then he sent me to an Oral Surgeon the oral surgeon said my jaw/bone structure is ok and that it may be a musle problem in my face which I personally think is a bunch of bologna. I once again went back to my primary physican for the 4th time and he has scheduled me a C.T. fearing it may be a neurological problem and prescribed me Lyrica and endocet which make the pain easier to tolerate; however, I'm still crying honestly every day b/c the pain is unbearable. I had tubes put in my ears as a child but have had no ear aches as an adult. 8 years ago I was in a car accident and had sever brain damage but have recoverd fully I just don't remerber any thing before the accident My memory starts at 18. So, could that have some thing to do with this horrible ear pain I have even though it was 8 yrs ago. It's so bad at times my whole right side of my head hurts I have a headache but only on the rgt. side my jaw will hurt slightly on the rgh. side and I swear my eye even hurts. I don't know what to do can you please help me. Thank-you for you time and hopefully a response.

Answer
Hi Laura,
Have you consulted a neurologist?  It is possible that there is irritation to the nerve on that side of the face/neck.  One such condition is known as geniculate neuralgia which causes deep ear pain.  Another is glossopharyngeal neuralgia.  Both of these may have been caused by the accident.

A complete neurological workup can reveal if your symptoms are due to nerve irritation.

Hope this helps,
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certifed in Audiology