If you’re experiencing earache and jaw pain along with your sore throat, there are a few possible causes that might be reason for concern. These symptoms may indicate a case of tonsillitis or its closely related cousin,
strep throat. Tonsillitis is a swelling of the tonsils and can be either bacterial or viral in nature. Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the tonsils which also leads to swelling. Your tonsils are located at the back of your throat and the top of your mouth where they help filter out bacteria and prevent infections. Sore
Throat When your tonsils encounter more bacteria than they can handle, they become overwhelmed and swell up. This swelling causes the soreness in your throat. Jaw Pain The swelling of your tonsils often extends up from your neck and throat, into your jaw, causing swollen lymph nodes and jaw pain. Ear Pain Also located in your throat is the eustachian tube, which drains away the fluid from your inner ear. When your tonsils become swollen, the eustachian tube can become blocked, causing fluid to be backed up in your inner ear. This fluid buildup leads to pain in your ear. Other Symptoms People suffering from tonsillitis often also experience a loss of voice, difficulty swallowing, fever, chills, and headaches. Strep throat victims can often experience painful swallowing, fever, headache, abdominal pain, body aches and loss of appetite. What to do about a Sore Throat with Ear and Jaw PainIf you’re experiencing the symptoms of either tonsillitis or strep throat, visit your local FastMed and have an examination performed by one of our medical professionals. We’ll check your tonsils for any swelling and can administer a strep test and throat swab. If tonsillitis or strep throat are detected, antibiotics are typically prescribed to fight off the infection. People with recurring infections may require a tonsillectomy to remove the tonsils entirely. In the meantime, get plenty of rest, drink cold water to help ease the pain in your throat and try gargling with salt water or using a throat lozenge. You can also take Tylenol or Ibuprofen to alleviate the pain and any fever you might have. About FastMedFastMed Urgent Care owns and operates nearly 200 centers in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas that provide a broad range of acute/episodic and preventive healthcare services 365 days a year. FastMed also provides workers’ compensation and other occupational health services at all its centers, and family and sports medicine services at select locations. FastMed has successfully treated more than six million patients and is the only independent urgent care operator in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas to be awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information about locations, services, hours of operation, insurance and prices, visit www.fastmed.com. Sign up to receive coupons, health tips, and more–directly to your inbox.
Many things can cause a sore throat, a cold being the most common. Similarly, ear pain has some underlying causes, including allergies and sinus infections. Generally, a sore throat is not a cause for concern and will improve within a few days. However, sore throat and ear pain occurring together may indicate a condition that may require medical assistance. What Are the Potential Causes of a Sore Throat and Ear Infection Occurring Together?Factors causing ear and throat pain include:
Can Ear Infections Cause Sore Throat?Can a Sore Throat Cause Earache?How Do I Know If I Have an Ear Infection or a Throat (or Nose) Infection?You can identify whether you have an ear, throat, or nose infection depending on the symptoms you experience. Ear InfectionAn ear infection is the inflammation of the middle, inner, or outer ear caused by a virus or bacteria. Its common symptoms are:
Nose and Throat InfectionsWhen the mouth and nose pick up germs, adenoids (small pads of immune tissue near the eustachian tubes) may grow. When they continue to grow, it blocks the eustachian tubes, causing ear pain. A nose or throat infection can result in the following symptoms:
When to See a Doctor If You Have an Earache and Sore Throat TogetherSee your doctor if you have:
Treat Your Sore Throat & Ear Pain by Visiting MI Express CareOur experienced providers at MI Express Urgent Care in Canton, Michigan, are committed to providing high-quality and timely medical care for sore throat and ear infections. Get in touch with our team for the best guidance and treatment course for all cases of sore throat and ear infections. Why is my tonsil swollen and my ear hurts?Bacteria and Viruses
Having a bacterial or viral infection often leads to an earache and/or sore throat. That could be anything from the common cold or the flu to something like tonsillitis or strep throat. If you're dealing with a cold, you know you can just treat those symptoms with over-the-counter medications.
Why does my ear and tonsil hurt on one side?Peritonsillar abscess
Only one tonsil is usually affected, which means the pain is worse on one side than the other. A peritonsillar abscess often causes pain in the ear of the affected side. The pain when swallowing may feel unbearable. You might also have pain when opening your mouth.
Can enlarged tonsils cause ear infections?Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are also referred to as tonsillitis, adenoiditis, or tonsil and adenoid hypertrophy. A child with enlarged tonsils and adenoids may have a sore throat, trouble swallowing, sleep apnea, or an inner ear infection.
What helps ear pain from tonsillitis?What can help ease a sore throat and ear pain? OTC pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) can help relieve your symptoms. Cough drops can soothe the back of the throat, as can cold foods and fluids. You can also apply heating pads or ice packs on your neck or near your affected ear.
|