Dr. Ameen, ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur

Ear pain is common, and infection is not the only cause!

Ear pain (sakit telinga) is a frequent reason patients seek treatment.

But do you know why many painful ears are actually healthy inside?

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The ear shares nerves with other areas

The ear shares nerve supply with:

• Throat
• Jaw (TMJ)
• Teeth
• Neck

Pain from these areas can be felt in the ear, even when the ear itself is normal.

This is called referred ear pain.

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Common causes of ear pain without infection

1) Throat problems

Tonsillitis, throat inflammation, or ulcers can refer pain to the ear.

2) Jaw joint (TMJ) disorders

Clenching, grinding, or jaw arthritis often cause ear pain.

3) Dental issues

Tooth infections or impacted wisdom teeth can mimic ear pain.

4) Neck muscle strain

Poor posture or muscle tension may radiate pain to the ear.

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Why antibiotics often don’t help

If the ear itself is not infected:

• Antibiotics will not relieve pain
• Symptoms may persist or recur
• The true cause remains untreated

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When ear pain needs urgent assessment

Seek prompt review if ear pain is associated with:

• Persistent hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• One-sided throat pain lasting weeks

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Key takeaway

Not all ear pain comes from the ear.
Finding the real source of pain is the key to proper treatment!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1) Can throat problems really cause ear pain?
Yes. This is very common due to shared nerve pathways.

2) Does normal ear examination rule out serious causes?
No. Referred pain must always be considered.

3) Should I take antibiotics for ear pain?
Only if infection is confirmed.

4) Can jaw problems cause ear pain?
Yes. TMJ disorders are a frequent cause.

5) When should I see an ENT specialist?
If ear pain is persistent, unexplained, or recurrent.