Ear pain, also known as otalgia, is a common symptom of various ear diseases. It can range from mild discomfort to severe, sharp pain. The causes of ear pain can be diverse, including infections, blockages, injuries, or underlying medical conditions. 

One of the most common causes of ear pain is otitis media, which is an infection of the middle ear. This condition often occurs as a result of a respiratory infection, such as a cold or flu. The pain associated with otitis media can be intense and may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, hearing loss, and fluid drainage from the ear. Treatment for otitis media usually involves antibiotics to combat the infection and pain relief medication to alleviate discomfort.

Another cause of ear pain is otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear. This condition occurs when the ear canal becomes infected, usually due to excessive moisture or water exposure. Symptoms of otitis externa include ear pain, itching, redness, and discharge. Treatment typically involves antibiotic eardrops, along with pain relief medication and keeping the affected ear dry.

Ear pain can also be caused by blockages in the ear, such as earwax buildup or foreign objects lodged in the ear canal. In such cases, removal of the blockage is necessary to relieve the pain. This can be done by a healthcare professional using specialized tools or through the use of ear drops to soften the earwax for easier removal.

In some instances, ear pain may be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as a ruptured eardrum, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, or referred pain from other areas of the body. These cases require appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent or severe ear pain, as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition. A healthcare professional will be able to diagnose the cause of the ear pain and recommend the appropriate treatment.