The reasons behind sharp throat and ear pain - How to deal with them

Most of the ear and throat infections are observed in children. Any discomfort in the sensory organs can be worrisome for parents, especially when a toddler undergoes sharp pain but could not be vocal about it. Proper medical help by an ENT specialist at the right time can save a lot of pain for the child and the need of worrying for the parents.

What causes sharp throat and ear pain?

Cold can be the common cause many times but you cannot just draw conclusions yet. Sharpness in throat and ear pain can be caused by many underlying conditions. Cold-related throat and ear pain go away in a matter of a week. But if the pain is persistent, you need to book an appointment with the ENT hospital.

What could be the other potential causes?

Besides cold there are other conditions that cause mild to severe throat and ear pain. Continue reading the blog as we explore more about sharp throat, nasal allergies, strep throat, fullness in the ear and many other ENT issues that cause pain.

• Inflammation of the tonsillitis: Caused by bacteria or viruses, tonsillitis is one of the most common ENT issues in children. Showing symptoms such as difficulty while swallowing, sharp pain at the end of tongue or behind the ears, tonsillitis can also be seen in adults. The other symptoms include white patches at the end of the tongue, fever, headache, bad breath and scratchy voice. Getting good rest, healthy and smooth foods that include lots of liquids, using a cool-mist vaporizer and gargling salt water are a few methods for quick relief.
• Strep throat: Another common condition associated with bacteria. Strep throat is a common condition that is seen across all age groups, especially during winter season or after consuming extremely cold drinks. It can be a painful condition associated with fever and squeaky voice. The small red spots at the end of the tongue makes it more difficult to swallow. Penicillin and amoxicillin are among the most used medications to treat strep throat.
• Mononucleosis: Popularly known as mono, mononucleosis is a viral condition that is infectious. The symptoms last from days to several weeks while causing severe pain in the ears and throat. Ringing sound in the ear, ear fullness, muscle soreness and mild fever are other symptoms. There is no specific treatment method followed for mononucleosis as it is a viral infection. Taking care of oneself by eating healthy is the only way.
• Glossopharyngeal neuralgia: Also referred as GPN, this condition can cause excruciating throat and ear pain and fortunately it is very rare. This is a neuropathic pain caused by glossopharyngeal which is a connecting nerve between head and neck. The short and intense pain episodes of this nerve are often triggered by swallowing cold liquids, intense yawning, coughing and talking. Sometimes, the ENT doctor might recommend surgery if the condition is not cured by medicines.
• Acid reflux: This is a gastro condition in which the contents of the stomach are pushed back into the esophagus causing heartburn, and lump in the throat. The lump might become painful after a heavy meal or when you try to lie down on your back. If you have been diagnosed with GERD and experiencing throat pain, consult your gastroenterologist.
• Peritonsillar abscess: Occurs as a result of untreated tonsillitis. Pus and fluids are accumulated around one of the tonsils making it a severe painful experience. Only one tonsil gets the infection causing pain only on one side. The pain is distinct from the rest of the conditions and required immediate medical help. Needle aspiration is employed to diagnose and treat peritonsillar abscess.
• Eagle syndrome: A rare condition that is caused by issues in the small bones in the neck and skull. The individual feels there is a lump in her/his throat and it causes pain whenever the head is moved. The other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, ringing in the ears and pain in the neck and face regions. The condition needs surgery to correct the issue.

Ear and throat infections in children can be daunting experiences for the parents. Know more about these conditions better so that you seek proper medical help at the right time.

Vikram ENT Hospital in Coimbatore provides all round care for a range of ear, nose, and throat infections. Book an appointment today if you are feeling any discomfort in your throat, ear and nose.