Why Does My Ear Hurt After Running? Causes & Prevention Tips

Why Does My Ear Hurt After Running?

It's common to experience minor aches and pains during or after exercise, but ear pain can be particularly unpleasant and concerning. If your ears hurt after a run, several factors could be to blame.

Running causes your body to work harder and burn more energy. This increases blood circulation as your heart pumps faster to deliver oxygenated blood to your muscles. The rushing blood can put pressure on blood vessels and nerves in the ear region, leading to pounding headaches or sharp ear pain.

Additionally, the impact of your feet hitting the ground sends vibrations through your bones and tissues. This repetitive jarring motion can strain the cartilage and bones in your ears. Over time, this may contribute to inflammation or swelling that presses on ear nerves.

Common Causes of Ear Pain After Running

Here are some of the most common culprits behind ear pain after running or exercise:

1. Ear Infections

Ear infections happen when bacteria or viruses invade the ear and cause inflammation. This leads to buildup of fluid and pressure on the eardrum. The added fluid and swelling presses on the sensitive nerves in the ear, causing severe pain.

Vigorous exercise may worsen existing ear infections or increase the risk of developing one. Thats because physical activity spikes circulation, sending more blood to the infected area. This ramps up swelling and ear pain.

Common signs of an ear infection after running include:

• Throbbing or piercing ear pain that gets worse when running
• Pus-like discharge dripping from the ear
• Muffled hearing
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Fever

See a doctor right away if you suspect an ear infection. Leaving it untreated may lead to hearing loss or the infection spreading.

2. Earwax Blockage

Earwax (cerumen) is produced naturally in the ears to trap dirt and debris. Normally, the wax drains out of the ears and you don't notice it.

However, too much earwax can plug the ears and harden against the eardrum. A buildup of thick, sticky earwax is more likely with the increased sweating and movement from running.

A blocked ear canal puts extra pressure on the eardrum, causing ear pain. Other common symptoms include:

• Feeling like the ear is plugged
• Dulled hearing
• Itchiness in the ears
• Coughing up wax
• Ear pain that worsens with running

See a doctor to safely remove excess earwax and relieve pain. Try not to poke at the wax with cotton swabs, which will only push it deeper into the ear canal.

3. Outer Ear Infections

The tube connecting the outer ear to the eardrum is called the ear canal. When moisture gets trapped here, it can lead to outer ear infections.

Excessive sweating during runs creates a warm, humid environment ideal for germs to proliferate. Typical outer ear infections include swimmer's ear and otitis externa.

In addition to ear pain, watch for these symptoms of outer ear infections:

• Itchy ears
• Discharge and fluid dripping from the ears
• Crusting or flaky skin around the outer ears
• Muffled hearing
• Ear pain that flares up during exercise

See a doctor to treat the infection. Be sure to thoroughly dry your ears after runs and showers to prevent recurrence.

4. Ear Trauma or Injury

Direct injury to the outer ears or ear canal can cause immediate pain. A brisk slap from tree branches or getting hit by debris mid-run may bruise or cut the ears.

Wearing earbuds and headphones during runs also raises the risk of ear trauma. Forcefully shoving earbuds into the ears can scratch and damage the ear canal lining. Over time, this causes irritation and inflammation.

Additionally, if earbuds abruptly get yanked out, they may tear or rip the skin inside the ear. This is a common cause of earlobe injuries in runners.

Signs of ear trauma include:

• Bloody discharge from the ear
• Visible tearing of the ear skin
• Extreme, sudden pain in one ear after impact
• Swelling around the outer ear

Get medical help for cuts, tears or trauma that damage the eardrum itself. This may lead to hearing problems if left untreated.

Less Common Causes

While less likely, a few other possibilities may cause ear discomfort when running:

Weather Changes

Some people experience ear pain with shifts in weather or atmospheric pressure. That's because the eardrums are highly sensitive to pressure changes.

Before a big storm, you may feel popping, clicking and mild pain in the ears as the air pressure drops. High winds during outdoor runs can also create pressure changes inside the ear.

Allergies

Seasonal allergies can trigger ear problems in some people. The sinuses and ears are connected via the Eustachian tube. When sinus drainage and congestion builds up, it may clog the ears and cause discomfort.

Allergies may also provoke middle ear infections, leading to severe ear pain during runs.

Teeth Grinding

Grinding or clenching your teeth applies pressure to the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. This can radiate up to the ears, causing soreness and pain.

Runners may be more prone to grinding due to performance anxiety or stress. Staying hydrated and using a mouthguard at night can help ease soreness.

Overheating

Strenuous running churns up a lot of body heat. If this isnt released properly, the resulting dehydration and overheating may lead to headaches and ear pain post-run.

Be sure to drink enough fluids before, during and after exercising to avoid overheating issues.

When To See A Doctor

While earaches often resolve after a few days, it's best to visit a doctor for evaluation in these situations:

• Ear pain lasts longer than a week
• Symptoms are severe or get progressively worse
• You experience hearing changes, dizziness or ringing ears
• You have fluid leaking from the ears
• You get hit in the ear and the pain doesnt subside
• You have other worrying symptoms like high fever or confusion

Depending on the cause, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for an infection or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. For recurring ear problems, you may need to avoid running until its fully resolved.

When To See An ENT Doctor

For chronic or severe ear issues, you may be referred to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, or otolaryngologist.

See an ENT right away if you experience:

• Hearing loss
• Ear trauma or injury
• Problems with balance and vertigo
• Ear pain combined with vision issues or facial numbness

An ENT has specialized tools and expertise to fully examine the ears. They can rule out structural problems and identify any damage or abnormalities requiring surgery.

Home Remedies For Ear Pain Relief

For mild cases of post-run ear pain, you may be able to manage symptoms at home using these self-care tips:

Rest Your Ears

Give your ears a break by avoiding strenuous exercises like running until the pain subsides. The rest period allows any infections or injuries to heal.

Apply Warm Compresses

Place a warm, wet compress over the affected ear to ease pain and draw out fluid from an ear infection. Repeat several times a day for pain relief.

Use OTC Pain Relievers

For moderate earaches, OTC analgesics like ibuprofen, acetaminophen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Do Ear Massages

Gently rub and massage the outer ears and lobes to improve blood flow and drainage in the area. Use smooth, circular motions from top to bottom.

Apply Essential Oils

Diluted tea tree, lavender, basil, olive or coconut oil may provide soothing relief for painful ears when applied topically. Never place oils directly into the ears.

Use OTC Ear Drops

For itchy, irritated ears, use over-the-counter numbing or anti-inflammatory ear drops to quickly reduce swelling and discomfort.

Manage Allergies

Keep seasonal allergies at bay with antihistamines and nasal sprays. Treating the root allergy problem helps ease associated ear pain and congestion.

Remove Earwax Buildup

Use gentle earwax removal drops daily to soften and help flush out excess wax. Never stick cotton swabs or other objects in your ears.

Stay Hydrated

Drink extra fluids before, during and after runs to prevent dehydration issues leading to headaches and earaches.

How To Prevent Post-Run Ear Pain

Making a few simple adjustments to your running routine and gear can help prevent uncomfortable earaches after exercise:

Wear Breathable Headphones

Opt for sweat-resistant, over-ear headphones that allow airflow to your ears. Avoid shoving earbuds deep into the ear canal.

Keep Ears Dry

Wipe your ears dry after runs using a clean towel or dry cotton swabs. Moisture left inside the ears promotes infections.

Loosen Headwear

Dont wear hats, headbands and buffs too tightly over or on your ears. The excess pressure can irritate the ears.

Do Regular Ear Checks

Get into the habit of regularly examining your ears for abnormal changes, swelling or discharge. This allows early treatment of any issues.

Talk To Your Doctor

Discuss any recurring ear problems with your doctor to identify and address the underlying cause, such as allergies.

Consider Custom Earplugs

Getting fitted for custom earplugs designed for running may help minimize discomfort in those prone to earaches.

Pop Your Ears

Relieve pressure buildup in the ears by holding your nose and gently blowing until you feel a pop. This helps open the Eustachian tubes.

Stay Injury-Free

Prevent falls and trauma by staying aware of your surroundings when running. Wear reflective gear at night for visibility.

Improve Your Form

Running with proper posture and form minimizes repetitive strain on the joints and bones that may radiate to the ears.

Watch Your Intensity

Sudden intense bursts can spike blood pressure and circulation changes. Ease into faster paces gradually.

When To Stop Running

Running with moderate, temporary ear pain isn't necessarily harmful with rest and proper precautions. However, if earaches persist or interfere with your hearing, take a break from running until you receive medical evaluation.

See your doctor right away if ear pain is accompanied by:

• Hearing changes or loss
• Dizziness, vertigo or balance problems
• Bleeding or fluid discharge
• Extreme pain or pressure in the ears
• Headaches, nausea or vision issues
• Fever over 101F (38C)

These may indicate a serious ear infection or health condition requiring prompt treatment. Follow your doctor's recommendations on when it's safe to resume running.

The Bottom Line

It's not unusual to have minor ear discomfort when running due to jarring motions and circulation changes. However, severe or persistent ear pain after exercise shouldnt be ignored.

See a doctor if ear pain lasts over a week or causes hearing issues. Common culprits include infections, injuries and obstructions. Treatment aims to resolve the underlying cause and prevent complications.

With rest and proper care, earaches brought on by running often clear up quickly. Pay attention to any recurring problems and modify your training habits to avoid future irritation.

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.