Audiology
Ear Pain
Ear pain is usually a symptom of an underlying issue. Your GP is the first step, with hearing assessment where needed.
Ear pain is usually a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a condition itself. Common causes include ear infections, ear wax build up, jaw (TMJ) disorders, dental problems and throat conditions. As the underlying cause can vary, medical assessment by a GP is usually the first step in determining the appropriate treatment.
Assessment & treatment
If you are experiencing ear pain, we recommend seeing your GP as the first point of contact. Your GP can assess the underlying cause of your symptoms, provide appropriate medical treatment where required, and determine whether further investigations or referral to another healthcare professional is needed.
If your GP identifies hearing related concerns or determines that further hearing assessment is required, they may refer you to an audiologist/audiometrist. The role of the audiologist/audiometrist is to assess your hearing and ear health, and perform ear wax removal where appropriate. In some cases, a baseline hearing assessment may also be requested before referral to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, as the results can assist with further medical assessment and management.
When should I seek urgent medical attention?
Seek prompt medical attention if you experience:
- Sudden reduction or loss of hearing, with or without ear pain
- Ear pain associated with fever, ear discharge or significant swelling
- Ear pain following significant head or ear trauma
- Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
Who can help?
- GP (first point of contact)
- Audiologist (hearing assessment or ear wax removal where appropriate)
Audiology near you
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