What causes pain behind the ear?

The ears and the mastoid bone (which is the bone that protects the ears) are susceptible and prone to pain. This is because they contain a lot of blood vessels and nerves. Pain behind the ear, while not expected, can also occur due to simple irritation. Pain behind the head’s ear, upper neck, or back can feel dull and throbbing. The pain can also refer to the jaws or cheeks. If the pain is only in the ear, it does not mean it is an ear infection or a problem directly related to the ear. Many nerves in the ear are connected to the head and neck, which can be the cause.

Identifying the condition is difficult, but the most common causes are ear infections, jaw problems, and teeth issues. It is difficult to diagnose the problem, but some of the most common ones are Swimmer’s Ear, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ), Otitis Media (middle-ear infection), Earwax Buildup, Occipital Neuralgia, Mastoiditis.

Monitoring your symptoms and seeing a doctor if the pain does not improve is essential. It does not matter if it is a minor infection or a potentially dangerous tumor. Seeking medical attention is crucial in these cases.

  • When the pain lasts a long time,
  • When you feel a lump or mass in your neck,
  • When you see blood coming from your ear.

It is essential to make a proper diagnosis to determine the cause of the pain and the best treatment. The doctor will ask questions about your medical history and health and perform a physical exam. All other steps are dependent on these two.

The doctor will prescribe a plan to treat headaches behind your ear, including treating the pain and the causes. (Medical News Today 2020). The doctor’s advice is essential, but treating the pain at your home can also help. For example, you could take anti-inflammatory medications, massage your neck, or apply heat packs to the back of your head.

What causes pain behind the ears?

It is essential to seek medical attention because several conditions can cause ear pain or headaches. It would help if you got a correct diagnosis to alleviate the pain. Potential conditions that can be difficult to diagnose include:

  • Swimmer’s Ear: Also known as Otis external, it is an infection in the outer ear. After swimming, the water left in the ear canal can cause a swimmer’s ear by creating a moist, bacterial-friendly environment. The thin skin layer lining the ear canal can be damaged by putting your fingers, cotton swabs, or other objects into your ears. (Mayo Clinic 2019). This condition can be treated easily with eardrops. The symptoms include a yellow-green or clear discharge, fullness in the ear, and redness and swelling around the ear canal. You should consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms because they can worsen over time. If your infection is severe, you may also need oral antibiotics.