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What Causes Headache After Ear Wax Cleaning?

Posted on Sat, 13 Sep 2014

Question: I went to the ER for horrible headache that I had for a few days. My ears were impacted and I had them cleaned out by the doctor on monday. I have been having slight headachs still.Today ,friday, my ears are sore and when I yawn i can feel pressure in them. I have to fly on a business trip on tuesday, should I worry about my ears on the plane?
Thanks,
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Surendiran Gaj (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No need to worry .

Detailed Answer:
Hello Sir ,
Thanks for writing ,
The extraction of hard impacted wax stimulates the nerve endings which are more superficial underlying the ear canal are the reason for your headache and pain during yawning .
The pain will subside gradually within few days .

So no need to worry.You can travel as scheduled .
Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Surendiran Gaj (2 hours later)

Thanks for your response. Would it be normal for my jaw to hurt as well? The pain is pretty intense at times, moves from upper to lower jaw, and is completely nonexistent other times. Also, it has already been 4 days since the extraction, are the headaches known to last that long? Thanks for everything, I hardly ever get headaches and it has me concerened.

Thanks, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Surendiran Gaj (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes , jaw pain may associate with wax extraction.

Detailed Answer:
Hello sir ,
Thanks for writing back ,
Yes, jaw pain may associate with ear canal nerve stimulation , along with temporal side head ache and auricular (external ear) pain.

It takes about a week to get relieved of symptoms.
And also, taking mild analgesics like tylenol 650 mg TID (thrice daily) helps to relieve the pain .

If your symptoms persists after a week or two , it is advisable to visit your ENT specialist for ear canal examination .
Take care.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E