An earache can stop you in your tracks—whether it’s a dull ache, sharp pain, or constant pressure that just won’t go away. For kids, it can mean sleepless nights and tears. For adults, it can make focusing at work or enjoying daily life nearly impossible. While it’s tempting to “wait it out,” ear pain is often your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Left untreated, even a small problem can grow into something more serious, especially if an infection is involved.