Ear pain and seasonal triggers: Why earaches are common in winter

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on January 20th 2026.

Ear pain is uncomfortable and can really impact your ability to enjoy daily activities. In the winter months, when there are more seasonal infections circulating and sinus issues are more prevalent, you may find your ears hurting more often. 

If you are having more earaches in the winter, why does the cold hurt your ears? It's important to understand seasonal triggers, common symptoms, and when to seek medical attention at urgent care.

What causes ear pain in winter?

Ear pain can increase in the winter for a variety of factors, primarily due to colder weather and circulating seasonal infections. 

Cold weather can cause the blood vessels in the ear to constrict, leading to a sharp, aching pain. Wind and cold exposure can push cold air into the ear canal, triggering pain or pressure. It can also irritate sensitive skin around the ear, causing pain and inflammation.

Colds, the flu, sinus infections, and other seasonal illnesses can all impact the sinuses, causing ear pain, pressure, and even ear infections. Viral and bacterial infections cause swelling in the nasal passages and Eustachian tube, preventing proper drainage.

Indoor dry air dries out the mucus membranes that are essential for helping the Eustachian tubes drain properly. When these become irritated, the tube may not open and close as it should, causing pressure buildup and discomfort. Changes in air pressure can also impact how the Eustachian tubes equalize pressure in the ears, worsening ear pain if the tube is already irritated.

Common symptoms of winter-related earaches

Here are some of the common symptoms of ear pain in the winter:

• Dizziness
• Fluid or mucus drainage
• Fullness or pressure
• Headaches
• Partial or full hearing loss
• Sharp, throbbing pain or dull, aching pain
• Trouble sleeping
  

The type of pain or other symptoms you experience is related to the underlying cause of the earache.

When should you seek medical attention for ear pain?

While ear pain from cold weather can resolve on its own, sometimes an earache can be an indication that something more serious is going on. A few signs you may want to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation:

• Balance issues, dizziness, or vertigo
• Ear pain accompanied by fever, chills, or body aches
• Fluid or pus drainage (infection)
• Hearing loss, either sudden or gradual
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a few days
• Severe and unbearable pain

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consider visiting an urgent care to help determine the underlying cause and provide the right treatment. 

Preventing earaches in the winter

If your ears are particularly sensitive to the weather changes during the winter months, you can take steps to prevent the pain. These include:

• Humidify your home to prevent your ears from drying out
• Manage seasonal allergies, which can trigger ear pain
• Practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of seasonal infections
• Wear ear protection such as hats or earmuffs
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
  

When to visit urgent care

Ear pain can be quite uncomfortable, and depending on your symptoms and the underlying cause, you may want to see a healthcare provider to help you feel better. Getting prompt care can help prevent complications or even permanent hearing loss.

When should you visit urgent care or a different type of provider?

Urgent care is ideal when ear pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by additional symptoms like fever, and you need help outside of your doctor’s normal working hours. Primary care is better for ongoing ear issues or follow-up after visiting urgent care. 

When you see a provider, they will examine the ear canal and eardrum to look for infection, fluid, or blockages. They may perform simple tests like checking hearing, evaluating sinus pressure, or assessing balance. Treatment often includes pain relief, prescription ear drops, or antibiotics.

Urgent care providers are here to help you manage your ear pain and feel better. To get started, find a center near you and walk in or save your spot online. 

FAQs about ear pain and seasonal triggers

Here are some frequently asked questions about cold weather and ear pain.

1. Why is ear pain more common in the winter?

Ear pain is more common in winter because cold air, dry indoor heat, and seasonal infections all increase ear pressure, irritation, and congestion.

2. What are the common symptoms of earaches in winter?

Common winter earache symptoms include sharp or aching pain, pressure or fullness, muffled hearing, congestion, and sometimes dizziness or mild drainage if an infection is present.

3. Can dry air cause ear pain?

Yes, dry indoor air can irritate the Eustachian tube and ear canal, leading to pressure changes and discomfort that feels like ear pain.

4. Should I visit urgent care for mild ear pain?

Mild ear pain can be monitored at home, but you should visit urgent care if symptoms get worse, last more than a couple of days, or are accompanied by fever, drainage, or significant hearing changes.

5. How can urgent care treat ear pain?

Urgent care can diagnose the cause of ear pain with an exam and provide treatments such as medication, pain relief, and guidance for managing congestion or pressure.

References: 

1.https://entfortwayne.com/why-do-i-get-more-ear-pain-in-the-winter/