What could be causing an ear ache and neck stiffness?

Answer by  benjiross (993)

Ear pain may be due to ear infection. The pain can cause reflex spasm of the neck. However ear infection can cause the bacteria to enter the brain if untreated and this could cause neck stiffness due to meningitis - very dangerous! Finally the ear pain may be a referred pain from the jaw joint which can cause a stiff neck.

Answer by  Tigerbelle (252)

It is possible that the ear ache could be associated with the neck pain because of the muscle that is attached. The sternocleidomastoid muscle in the neck is attached just below the ear and if that muscle is in spasm, if can lead to discomfort in the ear, temples and even the jaw.

Answer by  jsmith (2067)

Although they seem separate and distantly related, these two symptoms are often seen together if you have an infection of the inner ear or in the nasal passages or sinuses. As this is a relatively common type of infection that would be my first suspicion.

Answer by  WeAreLegion (43)

The causes of ear ache and neck stiffness are generally associated with colds and this could be a precursor. If your glands feel swollen this is probably the case.

Answer by  Jenn91 (122)

You could have an a head cold or a virus. An ear infection causes an ear ache and the neck stiffness could be swollen lymph nodes caused by a virus. With some viruses the lymph nodes become swollen and this limits the available motion of the neck. Antibiotics can help to cure this quick, but it will probably cure itself.

Answer by  trubaybgyrl (42)

A cold, the flu or allergy symptoms could b causing those things. A lot of times we think its something more serious but allergies and sinuses can cause more problems than you think.

Answer by  JuliaJolie (415)

An earache and stiff neck could be caused by a sinus infection, or any infection affecting the ear, nose and throat (they're connected). An injury can also be the cause.

Answer by  fancbiz (952)

An infection of the inner ear could cause you this or over exposure to loud noise for a prolonged period without safety gear.