There are two types on infections involving the ear, infections of the outer ear canal, known as external otitis and infections of the middle ear known as otitis media. Both can cause ear pain. In most cases the infections can be easily treated by a primary care physician or general ear, nose, and throat physician and should respond to treatment in a week or two. Persistent pain, drainage, hearing loss, itching, odor from the ear, or recurrent infections, may suggest a more serious problem that requires an ear specialist.

Recurrent infections and fluid in the middle ear can cause a significant hearing loss which can affect a child's speech and language development. Middle ear infections can also lead to perforation of the ear drum, cholesteatoma, and more severe hearing loss. Most middle ear infections will respond to antibiotics and medical treatment. In children with recurrent infections or persistent fluid, placement of ventilating tubes through the ear drum will often alleviate the infections and fluid. This will also reduce the risk of more severe problems, until the ear can develop normal ventilation and function.

Infections of the outer ear canal can be very painful, and are often known as Swimmer's ear. They are often associated with water exposure, itching or mild trauma to the ear, hearing aids. Recurrent or persisted pain, itching, or drainage may suggest a more serious problem. Thorough examination of the ear and surrounding area can often determine the cause of the problem, so that appropriate treatment can be prescribed.