My ear hurts

Ear pain in adults is most often an outer or middle ear infection. A provider can evaluate symptoms online and prescribe drops or antibiotics.

Also called: earache · otitis · ear infection

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed

Get care for ear infection (otitis) online

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Seek urgent care or the ER if you have:

  • Symptoms that are sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening
  • High fever (over 103°F / 39.4°C) that doesn't respond to treatment
  • Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or confusion
  • Signs of dehydration — dizziness, dark urine, unable to keep fluids down
  • Symptoms in someone who is pregnant, immunocompromised, or over 65

What my ear hurts could be

The most common causes a clinician considers. This isn't a diagnosis — it's the differential a provider works through with you.

Ear infection (otitis)

Ear infection (otitis) is one of the more common causes of my ear hurts. Ondoc can evaluate it online.

Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD — Medical Director
Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD

Board-Certified · Internal Medicine · Medical Director

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Conditions this often points to

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