What Causes Intermittent Stabbing Pain in the Left Ear?
Experiencing a stabbing pain in left ear that comes and goes can be alarming and frustrating. However, in many cases, the cause is benign. Determining what's behind this symptom along with some self-care tips can provide reassurance.
Ear Infections Causing Stabbing Ear Pain
One of the most common reasons for sharp, intermittent left ear pain is an ear infection. The medical term for this is otitis media or otitis externa if it affects the outer ear canal.
Infections cause fluid and swelling in the ear which can press on sensitive nerves. This leads to a sudden, piercing sensation. The pain may be intense for a short time, then fade away temporarily before returning again later.
Swimmer's Ear as a Cause
Swimmer's ear or otitis externa is a type of outer ear infection. It often causes pain that comes and goes in a stabbing or burning pattern.
The discomfort is usually worse when moving the outer ear or chewing. Swimmer's ear often arises after frequent contact with moisture allows bacteria or fungus to proliferate in the ear canal.
Ear Wax Blockage
Excessive or hardened ear wax pressing on the eardrum can also cause temporary stabbing pain in the left ear. Using cotton swabs to clean the ears tends to push wax deeper into the canal.
As more wax accumulates, it can press painfully on delicate inner ear structures, coming and going as the head tilts and wax shifts.
Less Common Causes of Intermittent Left Ear Pain
While ear infections are the most likely culprit for occasional stabbing left ear discomfort, certain other conditions can also be at play.
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)
Problems with the temporomandibular joints on each side of the jaw can sometimes refer pain up towards the ear. The pain tends to be fleeting and piercing when chewing or speaking.
If your ear pain seems to flare up mostly when moving your jaw, ask your dentist about TMJ disorder as a possible cause.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
This condition affecting facial nerves can cause brief attacks of severe, stabbing facial pain, including in the ear region. The intermittent pain episodes tend to last a few seconds to minutes.
Trigeminal neuralgia is more common in people over 50. Stress, cold wind, and even brushing teeth can trigger symptom flares.
Osteoarthritis of the Jaw
Some individuals with osteoarthritis (OA) in the temporomandibular jaw joint develop stabbing earaches that ebb and flow. The pain typically gets worse when chewing or opening the mouth widely.
Popping and grinding noises may also happen alongside the intermittent discomfort.
Is Intermittent Left Ear Pain Serious?
Wondering if a stabbing pain in left ear that comes and goes is indicative of a major problem? In most cases, the underlying cause is benign.
Seeking Medical Treatment
However, recurrent or persistent ear pain always warrants medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. In rare cases, it can signal issues like:
- Cholesteatoma (abnormal skin cyst deep in ear)
- Nerve problems like trigeminal neuralgia
- Immune disorder causing inner ear nerve inflammation
See your primary doctor promptly if ear pain arises alongside worrisome symptoms like hearing loss, ringing ears, dizziness, or facial drooping/numbness.
Finding the Right Specialist
Depending on exam findings and the nature of your symptoms, you may need referral to an ENT (ear nose & throat) doctor, neurologist, dentist, or other specialist for further testing to confirm the exact cause.
Self-Care for Recurrent Left Ear Pain at Home
If a possible ear infection or other benign cause is thought to be responsible for intermittent stabbing pain in your left ear, there are self-help techniques you can try for some relief at home.
Use OTC Pain Relievers
Taking over the counter (OTC) pain medications like ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce swelling and discomfort when ear pain flares.
Aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers when ear infection is suspected due to its link with a rare but serious condition called Reyes syndrome.
Apply Warmth
Applying a warm (not hot) compress around the outer ear can alleviate painful pressure and promote healing for an ear infection or strained nerves.
You can use a clean washcloth soaked in warm water. Heat therapy boosts blood flow to provide soothing relief.
Avoid Water in Ear Canal
When swimmers ear is suspected, avoid further exposure of the ear canal to moisture which can enable bacteria overgrowth. Use cotton balls coated in Vaseline or silicone ear plugs when bathing.
Get Plenty of Rest
Finally, being sure to get enough rest supports healing from infections, strained nerves or strained muscles that may be causing intermittent stabbing left ear pain episodes.
FAQs
Why do I suddenly get stabbing pain in my left ear?
The most common causes of sudden, intermittent stabbing left ear pain are minor infections from bacteria or fungus buildup and excess ear wax placing pressure on the eardrum. The pain tends to fade quickly before returning again later.
Is recurring ear stabbing pain serious?
Typically no, recurrent brief ear stabbing pains are not serious. They usually stem from minor, treatable issues like swimmer’s ear infections or ear wax blockages. However, some severe conditions can also cause stabbing pains so it's worth seeing a doctor.
Should I see a doctor for short left ear stabbing pain?
Yes, it's a good idea to consult a physician if you develop any new ear symptoms involving stabbing pain episodes, especially with additional hearing changes or dizziness. They can check for infection and inspect for less common sources like nerve problems.
How is diagnosis done for intermittent ear stabbing pain?
The first step is having the ear canal examined with a small scope to check for obstruction and infection. Your doctor will also check your neurological function, joints, chewing muscles if needed to rule out referred pain from jaw or nerve issues that can cause stabbing discomfort.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment