Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT) Questions Sinusitis

Why do I have a ear pain during a sinus infection?

I have a sinus infection for the last 1 week. I am on medication for it too. However, my ears also have a shooting pain. What could be wrong?

4 Answers

Ear pain is not unusual during a sinus infection. Many times it is related to the congestion experienced during sinus infection. This congestion can affect a structure called the Eustachian tube, which connects to your ear. Usually, the ear pain subsides as the sinus infection goes away with proper treatment.
The ventilating tube between the middle ear and posterior (back) of the nose can be blocked by sinus infections causing ear “pressure”...but “shooting pain” as described may represent a secondary middle ear infection or. TMJ problem...this should be medically evaluated.
It is called referred pain. Different anatomical areas sharing the same
Nerves like gall bladder pain felt in the back by the tip of the scapula.
Probably effect on Eustachian tube pressure, i.e. negative pressure with momentary retraction on ear drum