What does otalgia refer to?

Otalgia specifically refers to pain in the ear, commonly understood as an earache. It can result from various underlying conditions such as infections, blockages, or inflammation affecting the ear or related structures. While "common ear ache" may not capture the full spectrum of possible pain intensity or cause, it aligns most closely with the definition of otalgia compared to the other options provided.

The alternative choices present terms that are related to the ear but do not accurately define otalgia. Ear irritation refers to discomfort or irritation, which is broader and not specifically focused on pain. Ear swelling can occur due to various conditions but does not inherently indicate pain, nor does it refer to the sensation of an earache. Hearing loss pertains to a decrease in the ability to hear and is unrelated to the concept of ear pain itself. Thus, "common ear ache" is the best fit for the definition of otalgia.