Hi

Thanks for the query

According to the description mentioned, it seems to be you are suffering from one of the following problems:

1. An aberrant blood vessel passing close to the eardrum causing the pain and the ticking sensation. Due to age related changes, there can be pressure related variations in the blood vessels supplying the ear causing a dormant vessel to open up. This aberrant vessel can cause the above mentioned symptoms whenever there is variation in the blood pressure. Applying pressure behind the ear would stop the blood supply from that vessel causing the symptoms to stop temporarily.

2. Fluid inside the ear drum - If there is any block in the tube connecting nose and the ear (Eustachian tube), there can be fluid trapped inside the ear drum. The ticking sensation could be due to the pulsations of the minor blood vessels in the middle ear in the presence of the fluid. And the pain perceived could be due to pressure exerted by the fluid over the ear drum.

Without a complete examination of the ear and the nose, it is very difficult to make an appropriate diagnosis. There are few home remedies which you can try initially, if it does not improve, you can definitely consult your doctor.

Try using saline nasal spray to relieve the blocked Eustachian tube (if any), followed by steam inhalation 3-4 times a day and drink plenty of warm water. Avoid smoking and cold beverages for few days.

Hope this answers your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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