Hearing Loss

Sore Throat and Ear Pain: Understanding the Connection

A closer look at sore throat symptoms, ear pain, and treatments

Last update on Feb, 21, 2025

Most people have experienced the discomfort of waking up with a sore throat or a sensation of fullness in the ears. But what happens when both symptoms occur simultaneously? We’ll take a look at the connection between a sore throat and ear pain, potential causes, and remedies.

Why a Sore Throat Leads to Ear Pain

There are usually two reasons for feeling pain in the ears and the throat simultaneously:

Referred Pain: According to Micah Timen, MD, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), ear discomfort often originates from the throat and manifests in the ears. This is also known as referred pain, meaning that discomfort felt in one area is perceived in another, despite originating elsewhere. “Typically, if you have pain in your ears and throat, the source is primarily in the throat,” Dr. Timen explains. The throat and ears are interconnected through the glossopharyngeal nerve, which runs from the brainstem through the ear and down to the throat.
Inflammation Spread from Throat to Ear: Conversely, when you experience a sore throat, the inflammation and infection can spread from the throat to the Eustachian tubes and middle ear. Bacteria or viruses responsible for causing a sore throat can travel through these pathways, leading to an ear infection or double ear infection. The proximity of the tonsils to the Eustachian tubes and middle ear can also spread infection. Inflamed tonsils can block the movement of air and fluids in the Eustachian tubes, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and potentially cause an ear infection.

The 3 Most Common Causes of Throat and Ear Pain

Here are some of the primary causes of connected throat & ear pain:

Infections

Bacterial and viral infections frequently cause throat and ear pain or swelling, often accompanied by additional symptoms:

Sinus infections. May include congestion, thick yellow or green mucus, and cold-like symptoms. Minor cases can often be managed with saline rinses and over-the-counter decongestants, but symptoms lasting beyond 10 days may require medical treatment.

Are ear infections contagious? Read more here.

Tonsillitis. Inflamed tonsils may cause fever, difficulty swallowing, and visible redness or white spots on the tonsils. If you have a sore throat, ear pain and swollen glands, it might be tonsillitis. If you have symptoms longer than four days, it might be wise to seek medical attention.
Strep throat. A bacterial infection characterized by a sudden-onset sore throat, fever, headache, and nausea or vomiting. If you have a headache, ear pain and sore throat, it could be strep. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is necessary.
Abscessed tooth. An infected tooth can cause significant pain radiating to the ear and throat. If you have a sore throat, ear pain and jaw pain, talking to a dental specialist is a good place to start. Other symptoms may include swelling in the jaw, a loose tooth, or pus drainage from the gums. Immediate dental care is required to prevent the infection from spreading.

Chronic Acid Reflux (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid travels up the esophagus, irritating the throat and referred pain in the ears. Common symptoms of GERD include:

Heartburn
Regurgitation
Chronic cough
Hoarseness
Difficulty swallowing

While occasional acid reflux can often be managed with over-the-counter antacids, frequent symptoms (twice a week or more) warrant medical evaluation to prevent long-term complications.

Mouth and Throat Cancer (Rare)

Although rare, persistent throat and ear pain can be a symptom of throat cancer, particularly if the discomfort is isolated to one side of the throat and ear. So, if you have a persistent sore throat and ear pain on one side, check in with your doctor. Additional warning signs may include:

Unexplained weight loss
Difficulty swallowing
Persistent hoarseness
A lump in the throat or neck

Individuals over 50, those who smoke, consume alcohol, or have not been vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) are at an elevated risk. A thorough examination allows healthcare providers to identify abnormalities or rule out serious conditions.

Take a look at some other reasons why your ears may feel clogged

Home Remedies for Ear Pain and Sore Throat

For mild cases associated with viral infections or seasonal allergies, these home remedies can provide relief:

Gargling with warm salt water
Drinking warm beverages, such as tea with honey
Taking steam showers to ease congestion
Using over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, or pain relievers
Staying well-hydrated and getting adequate rest

If symptoms persist beyond a few days, worsen, or fail to improve with home treatment, it’s time for something more than sore throat and ear pain remedies from home. Contact your health care provider to receive sore throat & ear pain medicine and relief.

When It’s Time to Consult a Doctor

If you have a sore throat and ear pain for 3 weeks or more or experience severe sore throat and ear pain, it’s probably time for an evaluation by a specialist. Find a hearing clinic near you.

While throat and ear pain can often be managed with at-home treatments, professional evaluation can ensure timely care and peace of mind.

Address Your Hearing Health

To effectively address sore throat and ear pain, you want to understand the connection between the ear and the throat. By identifying potential causes and seeking medical attention, you can find relief and avoid worsening symptoms. Find a clinic near you to take charge of your hearing health today.

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