Which term describes pain in the ear?

The term that describes pain in the ear is "otalgia." This term is derived from the Greek words "oto," meaning ear, and "algia," meaning pain. Otalgia specifically refers to discomfort or pain that is located in the ear itself and can result from various conditions, including infections, blockages, or other medical issues affecting the ear.

In contrast, otitis refers to inflammation or infection of the ear, often characterized by pain, but it is a broader term that encompasses the condition causing the pain rather than the pain itself. Tinnitus describes a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears and is not indicative of pain but rather a symptom or condition. Otosclerosis is a condition that affects the bones of the middle ear, potentially impacting hearing, but it does not specifically address pain felt in the ear. Therefore, otalgia is the most accurate term for ear pain.