Ear Pain & Hearing Loss: What To Do & When To See a Doctor

Sudden hearing loss, ear fullness, or popping that doesn’t resolve quickly requires urgent medical evaluation (ideally within 24–48 hrs for sudden sensorineural hearing loss).

While Waiting for Appointment

• Stay hydrated; swallowing/chewing gum helps eustachian tube function.
• OTC ear drops (carbamide peroxide) for wax—not if perforation suspected.
• Avoid pressure changes (flying, diving, altitude).
• Warm compress for comfort.
• No cotton swabs—risk perforation, wax impaction.
• Rest; avoid loud noise.

Red Flags – Go to ER/ENT Immediately

• Sudden unilateral hearing loss
• Vertigo, nausea, vomiting
• Facial weakness
• Ear drainage (bloody/purulent)
• Recent head trauma

Early treatment (steroids for sudden SNHL) improves recovery odds.