Ear pain
Ear pain may come from the ear itself or be referred from the throat, jaw or teeth. The trigger and location help guide examination.
What to know first
Throbbing pain, pain when touching the ear or pain with chewing or swallowing.
When to see a clinician
Seek advice for ongoing pain, fever, discharge or reduced hearing. Tell us about recent ear cleaning, swimming or dental symptoms.
Possible causes
Middle ear infection, outer ear inflammation, injury and referred pain are possible causes.
Examination and tests
The ear canal and eardrum are examined. The throat, jaw or other areas may need assessment when the ear looks normal.
Tests are selected according to your symptoms and examination. Specialist tests or procedures may require referral.
Treatment
Pain relief and treatment are chosen for the cause. Antibiotics or ear drops are not appropriate for every type of ear pain.
These are general treatment options. Your clinician will discuss which approach fits your condition; not every treatment described is provided at this clinic.
What you can do at home
Avoid ear cleaning and unprescribed drops. Use medicines only as directed, with age-appropriate dosing for children.
Frequently asked questions
Can a throat or jaw problem make the ear hurt?
Yes. Pain can be referred to the ear even when the ear itself is normal.
What should I tell the clinician?
Tell us when symptoms began, whether they are changing, your medicines and allergies, and any relevant medical conditions. For a child, describe changes in feeding, sleep or response to sound.
Related symptoms and conditions
Visiting Honda ENT Clinic
Check temporary changes
| Day | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| Mon / Tue / Wed / Fri | 9:00–12:30 | 15:00–18:20 |
| Saturday | 9:00–11:00 | 14:00–16:00 |
| Closed | Thursday, Sunday and public holidays | |
Reception opens 15 minutes before each session. Walk-ins are welcome for general consultations. Vaccinations may require an appointment.
Please call before visiting if you have a fever of 37.5°C or higher, a recent positive infection test, a household member with an infection, or would like infection testing. The waiting-time service is in Japanese.
Schedules can change. Check clinic news or call before travelling.
About this information and references
This information is published by Honda ENT Clinic and is intended as general guidance. Individual diagnosis and treatment require a clinical assessment. Updated: 6 October 2026.
About Medical Director Dr. Yusuke Honda