fülfájást

Fülfájás, also known as otalgia, is a common medical symptom characterized by pain in or around the ear. It can be caused by a variety of factors affecting the outer, middle, or inner ear, as well as referred pain from other areas of the head and neck.

The most frequent cause of fülfájás in children is otitis media, an infection of the middle ear. This often follows a common cold or upper respiratory infection, leading to fluid buildup and inflammation behind the eardrum. In adults, fülfájás can also stem from middle ear infections, but other causes become more prominent. These include swimmer's ear (otitis externa), an infection of the ear canal, often due to water trapped in the ear. Earwax impaction, where excessive earwax blocks the ear canal, can also produce pain and a feeling of fullness.

Other potential causes of fülfájás include barotrauma, which is injury caused by changes in air or water pressure, such as during airplane travel or scuba diving. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, affecting the jaw joint, can cause pain that radiates to the ear. Dental problems, like tooth decay or abscesses, can also manifest as ear pain. Less commonly, fülfájás can be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as a ruptured eardrum or even certain types of infections or tumors.

The intensity and nature of the pain can vary, from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations. It may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, hearing loss, discharge from the ear, dizziness, or a feeling of pressure. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination of the ear and a review of the patient's medical history. Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause, ranging from simple ear drops for infections to pain relievers, or even the removal of impacted earwax. In cases of referred pain, addressing the primary source of discomfort is essential.