Otalgia

Otalgia is the sensation of pain in the ear, while referred otalgia is pain felt in the ear but originating from a nonotologic source. Ear pain is a diagnostic problem when examination of the ear shows no pathology. Pain in the ear can be caused by inflammation of the external meatus or the middle ear.

Once determined, most causes of referred otalgia can be readily treated. Use antibiotics in treating various types of infections (eg, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis). Use antivirals if the causative agent is suspected to be viral, such as in cases associated with herpes zoster or shingles.