What does it mean if i have ear pain?

Infection: The ear could be infected or congested. You should see your doctor.

Several reasons: An ear infection seems the most obvious if the ear is hurting, can be due to pressure from fluid or pus in the middle ear. The eardrum itself may be inflamed, not a true ear infection. Getting off an airplane may create that pressure and pain sensation, but not need antibiotics. Unless the ear is draining, olive oil into the ear canal may help the pain. Office visit in several days if not better.

Several causes: Ear pain can develop from inflammation of the ear canal skin, from a middle ear infection, TMJ inflammation or even from problems affecting sites far from the ear such as the throat. Most commonly, ear pain is due to an ear infection- either in the middle ear or ear canal. If these areas area normal, then the hunt for the source of the pain can be complex but needs to be complete.