2. An uncomfortable feeling
One of the most obvious signs of an ear infection is discomfort in the ear. This symptom often begins to appear before a full-blown infection sets in. At this stage, the discomfort is generally mild, but still unpleasant. As the infection increases, so will swelling in the ear, which will lead to more consistent, intense and even throbbing pain.
You might also start to feel pressure or itching in your ear. You might also notice that there is pain radiating out from the ear and down toward the jaw. Discomfort might worsen at night or while moving.