Ear Pain Treatment in Pueblo, CO

Ear pain is a common condition characterized by pain in one or both ears. It is divided into two categories – primary and secondary, depending on whether it arises from the inner, middle, or external ear or it occurs from pathology outside the ear, as the result of an underlying medical condition such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Symptoms of Ear Pain

The most common symptoms of ear pain include: 

• Pain and aching sensation in one or both ears
• Feeling of fullness or pressure in ear 
• Hearing loss
• Ringing in the ear(s) or tinnitus

Because the symptoms of ear pain may vary, it is important to consult a specialist and undergo a thorough examination for a proper diagnosis and accurate treatment plan. At TMJ Sleep Colorado, we offer specialized treatment for ear pain with oral appliance therapy. Our specialist, Dr. Beck is board-certified to treat craniofacial pain and provides customized oral appliances for sleep apnea and TMJ disorders.

Ear Pain Causes

Commonly, ear pain is the result of an infection. However, there are many cases where ear pain is actually caused by an underlying condition. This type of ear pain, known as secondary ear pain, is caused by other medical conditions that affect other parts of the body. In such cases, ear pain is actually referred from other body parts. 

The most common causes of secondary ear pain include: 

• Pharyngitis or tonsillitis
• Dental problems
• Temporomandibular joint disorder 
• Sleep apnea 

If traditional treatments for ear pain have not provided relief, you should consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Beck, our ear pain specialist at TMJ Sleep Colorado. Dr. Beck specializes in treating TMJ disorders, sleep apnea, and various types of muscular and joint pain. He can assess your symptoms, perform a thorough physical examination, and discuss your medical history with you to ascertain the source of the pain and the best treatment plan.

TMJ Disorder and Ear Pain

The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is the joint located under your ears that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is inflamed or damaged, it can cause a host of symptoms and complications across the face and head, with ear pain being one of the most common. This occurs because the different parts of the maxillofacial region are closely connected and very complex. 

TMJ inflammation caused by TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) can radiate to the ear and cause ear pain. TMJ-related muscle overuse or strain can also cause ear pain, as well as headaches and other types of facial pain. 

If your ear pain is caused by TMD, treatments that do not address this underlying cause of the pain may prove ineffective. Seeking treatment for your TMJ disorder from our specialized healthcare professional, Dr. Beck, can help relieve ear pain, as well as the other symptoms associated with the TMJ disorder.

Tinnitus and TMJ Disorders

Tinnitus is also closely related to TMJ disorders and neck problems. In many cases, the intensity of the tinnitus changes as the individual moves their mouth, jaw, face, or neck. 

TMJ problems can either cause tinnitus or make it worse due to the fact that the chewing muscles and ligaments that attach to the jaw are directly linked to the middle ear. When these muscles are not functioning properly or when the ligaments become inflamed or overstrained, this can affect hearing and trigger tinnitus.

At TMJ Sleep Colorado, we can provide successful treatment for underlying TMJ issues and help relieve the symptoms of tinnitus.

Sleep Apnea and Ear Pain 

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes frequent disruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions in breathing affect oxygen levels in the body. In turn, this decrease in oxygen levels can lead to inflammation and fluid buildup throughout the body, including the ears. 

The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of your throat and regulates pressure within the ear. When fluid builds up due to poor oxygenation, this tube may become blocked, causing pain or even infection.

In addition, snoring — a common symptom of sleep apnea — can cause vibrations that also irritate and inflame delicate structures within your ears, leading to discomfort.

Treatment for Ear Pain

The first step in addressing ear pain is to determine its root cause. If the pain is caused by an infection, over-the-counter pain medicine or antibiotics can provide relief. Home remedies for ear pain include over-the-counter pain medicine and placing warm or cold compresses on the area. However, you should consult a specialist if the pain persists for more than two or three days or gets worse.

If a TMJ disorder or a condition like sleep apnea is the source of your ear pain, you must seek professional help and treatment from a specialist. At TMJ Sleep Colorado, our specialist, Dr. Beck, has extensive experience in providing personalized treatment for TMD and sleep apnea and can create a treatment plan that will relieve not only your ear pain but also the discomfort caused by other symptoms of these conditions. 

Dr. Beck is the only specialist in Pueblo board-certified to provide oral appliance therapy for TMD and sleep apnea and can successfully apply his unique skills to customize a treatment plan that efficiently alleviates your discomfort and pain. Dr. Beck has been recognized a Diplomate in the treatment of TMJ disorders by the American Board of Craniofacial Pain and as a Diplomate in Sleep Medicine by the American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine.

Improve your well-being and overall health by seeking professional and specialized help for ear pain. If you are experiencing ear pain and want to learn more about the treatment options we offer, visit TMJ Sleep Colorado at 1619 N Greenwood St #308, Pueblo, CO 81003, or call us at (719) 544-0901.