Ear Pressure Pain

Ear pressure pain arises due to pressure changes inside the ear. Within each ear is a Eustachian tube, which is an auditory tube connecting the middle ear to the throat and nose and it also controls ear pressure. Blockage to the Eustachian tube due to any reason can affect pressure regulation inside the ear, leading to ear pressure pain.

Differences in pressure between the external environment and the inner ear also cause ear pressure pain. For example, altitude changes such as while flying in an airplane or while scuba diving, result in external pressure exerted in the spaces inside the ear. You may also experience mild ear pressure pain inside the elevator or while driving up the mountains.

If pain due to changes in ear pressure occurs only occasionally with improvement in symptoms after pressure is equalized, it is not something to worry about. However, frequent ear pressure pains can lead to further complications inside the ear and must be treated by a qualified doctor.​​

When to seek expert advise

The symptoms of ear pressure pain subside after a few hours or once when the pressure between the external environment and inside the ear is equalized. 

However, if your symptoms become severe and persist for more than a few hours, it may be sign that there may have been leakage inside the ear. For the same reason, bleeding or drainage from the ear must not be ignored. ​

Other serious symptoms which require your ear pressure pain to be assessed by an ENT (Eye-Nose-Throat) specialist include:

• Fever accompanying the ear pain.

• Vertigo and loss of balance.

• Hearing loss.

• Persistent and recurring symptoms.

At The Aga Khan University Hospital the only internationally accredited hospital of Pakistan, our team of expert and highly trained ENT specialists at the the Section of Otolaryngology (ENT) will provide with you with expert medical advice. You can discuss your symptoms, concerns and queries in complete confidence with your doctor.​​