ear that comes and goes

Overview

Intermittent ear pain is discomfort or soreness in one or both ears that comes and goes rather than being constant. It may feel sharp, dull, or like pressure inside the ear. It can last a few seconds or a few hours, and it often goes away on its own.

Yes. Many people experience ear pain that comes and goes at some point. Most cases are mild and do not need emergency care.

It affects people of all ages. Children are more likely to get ear pain from fluid or infection. Adults often get it from allergies, sinus problems, or pressure changes when flying or diving.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Aching or sharp pain in the ear that comes and goes
• Feeling of pressure or fullness in one or both ears
• Popping, clicking, or crackling sounds when swallowing or moving your jaw
• Mild muffled hearing that clears up on its own

Symptoms in children

• Pulling or tugging at the ear
• Fussiness or irritability that comes and goes
• Trouble sleeping, especially when lying down
• Not hearing quiet sounds or asking "what?" often

Symptoms in older adults

• Milder pain that may be less obvious than in younger people
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Changes in hearing that come and go
• Discharge from the ear

Causes

Main causes

• Eustachian tube dysfunction — the tube that connects the ear to the back of the nose does not open and close normally
• Fluid buildup in the middle ear
• Earwax blocking the ear canal
• Mild infections of the outer or middle ear
• Pressure changes during flying, driving in mountains, or diving
• Allergies or sinus congestion
• Pain from the jaw joint (TMJ) that is felt in the ear

Risk factors

• Being a child, because eustachian tubes are shorter and narrower
• Allergies or frequent colds
• Sinus infections
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Changes in altitude or air pressure
• Swimming or getting water in the ear

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Pain lasts more than two days or keeps coming back
• You have a fever along with ear pain
• You see discharge or bleeding from the ear
• You notice any hearing loss
• You feel dizzy or have balance problems

Book a routine appointment if:

• Ear pain occurs once or twice a month
• You feel pressure or popping that doesn't go away
• It is affecting your sleep or daily activities
• You have allergies and ear symptoms are getting worse

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will ask about your symptoms, recent activities (such as flying or swimming), and any allergies. They will look into your ears with a tool called an otoscope, which shines a light and magnifies the ear canal and eardrum.

Tests that may be done

• Otoscopy to inspect the ear canal and eardrum
• Tympanometry to check how well the eardrum moves
• A hearing test if there are concerns about hearing
• X-rays or scans rarely, if the pain is severe or long-lasting

What to expect at your appointment

The exam is quick and usually painless. For children, the doctor may check both ears and the throat. You may learn the cause right away, or the doctor may suggest watching and waiting for a few days if the problem seems mild.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Many cases of intermittent ear pain clear up without special treatment. Self-care at home can help ease discomfort, and medical care is only needed when pain is severe or a condition such as infection or fluid is found.

Self-care at home

• Place a warm cloth or heating pad on the outside of the ear for 10 to 15 minutes
• Swallow, yawn, or chew gum to help equalize pressure in the ear
• Use a nasal saline spray or steam to open the eustachian tube (ask your pharmacist)
• Sit upright rather than lying flat if pressure bothers you
• Avoid putting anything in your ear, including cotton swabs

Medical treatments

If a healthcare professional finds a cause, they may suggest treatments such as clearing excess earwax, prescribing medication for a bacterial infection, or recommending decongestants or nasal sprays for eustachian tube problems. Always follow their advice and ask about any medicine they suggest — do not take over-the-counter ear medicines without talking to a doctor or pharmacist.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. In some children with frequent middle ear fluid or infections, tiny ventilation tubes (grommets) may be placed in the eardrum to improve drainage and air flow. An ear specialist (ENT doctor) will discuss this option only if other treatments have not helped.

Living with this condition

For most people, intermittent ear pain is a nuisance that comes and goes. Notice what triggers it — for example, flying, getting water in your ear, or allergy season — and take simple steps to avoid those triggers when possible.

Lifestyle tips

• If pressure changes trigger pain, try swallowing, yawning, or using a special earplug during flights
• Dry your ears gently after swimming or showering
• Manage allergies with help from your doctor or pharmacist
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Do not insert cotton swabs or fingers into your ears

Diet and exercise

There is no specific diet for ear pain, but eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated supports your immune system and may help reduce colds and allergies. Gentle exercise can improve drainage if congestion is a trigger, but avoid diving or swimming when you have a cold.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Repeated pain can be frustrating, especially if it interrupts sleep or daily life. Stress can make you more aware of pain. If you feel anxious or tired from the symptoms, talk to your doctor — they can help find the cause and reassure you.

Prevention

Not always, but some cases can be avoided. Protect your ears from pressure changes during flying or diving, dry your ears well after swimming, treat allergies early, and avoid putting objects in your ears.

Vaccines

Childhood vaccines, including the pneumococcal vaccine and flu vaccine, can prevent some infections that may lead to ear problems. Ask your doctor or nurse about recommended vaccines for you and your family.

Screening programmes

There is no regular screening for intermittent ear pain. However, if you have frequent ear problems, your doctor may recommend regular hearing tests to catch any changes early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent fluid in the middle ear can cause temporary hearing problems
• An untreated infection could spread beyond the ear (rare)
• A blocked earwax may become harder or cause more discomfort if left alone

Long-term outlook

For most people, intermittent ear pain is not serious and improves with simple care or treatment. If a cause is found, treating it usually brings good relief. Even when symptoms come back, seeing your doctor early can help keep them from affecting your life.

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