What causes earache? How can you treat it at home? When should you see a doctor? Get answers to these important questions and learn more about the common causes and management of ear pain.

The Causes of Earache: Identifying the Root of the Problem

Earache can have various underlying causes, ranging from minor infections to more serious conditions. Some of the most common reasons for ear pain include:

Ear Infections

Ear infections, both in the outer ear (otitis externa) and middle ear (otitis media), are a leading cause of earache. These infections can result in a watery or pus-like discharge from the ear, as well as pain and discomfort.

Glue Ear

Glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion (OME), is a buildup of fluid behind the eardrum, which can cause a sensation of pressure and occasional earache. While often painless, the pressure from the fluid can sometimes lead to discomfort.

Ear Damage

Injuries to the delicate structures of the ear, such as a perforated eardrum from using cotton buds or other objects, can also cause earache. These types of injuries typically heal on their own, but may require medical attention if the pain persists.

Earwax or Foreign Objects

A buildup of earwax or the presence of a foreign object in the ear can sometimes lead to earache. It’s important not to try removing these on your own, as you may inadvertently push them further into the ear canal and cause further damage.

Throat Infections

Surprisingly, earache can also be a symptom of a throat infection, such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis. The pain may radiate from the throat to the ear, causing discomfort.

Treating Earache at Home: Effective Strategies for Relief

In many cases, earache can be managed effectively at home without the need for medical intervention. Here are some tips for treating earache:

Over-the-Counter Painkillers

Medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with earache. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions, and avoid giving aspirin to children under 16.

Warm Compresses

Placing a warm, damp flannel or cloth against the affected ear can help soothe the pain and promote healing.

Eardrops

Your pharmacist may recommend over-the-counter eardrops to help manage the symptoms, but it’s important to follow their guidance and avoid using them if the eardrum has ruptured.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Earache

While many cases of earache can be treated at home, there are certain circumstances when you should contact your healthcare provider:

Accompanying Symptoms

If you or your child experience additional symptoms, such as a high fever, severe sore throat, hearing loss, swelling around the ear, or discharge from the ear, it’s best to seek medical attention.

Foreign Objects in the Ear

If you suspect there is something stuck in the ear, do not attempt to remove it yourself, as you may further damage the delicate structures. Seek professional help to have the object safely removed.

Persistent Earache

If the earache does not improve within a few days, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider, as this may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires treatment.

Preventing Earache: Strategies for Maintaining Ear Health

While earache can be a common occurrence, there are steps you can take to help prevent it:

Proper Ear Hygiene

Avoid using cotton buds or other objects to clean the ear, as this can damage the delicate structures and lead to infections. Instead, gently clean the outer ear with a washcloth.

Avoiding Excessive Exposure to Water

If you have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum, it’s important to keep the affected ear dry to prevent further irritation and delay healing.

Treating Underlying Conditions

Addressing any underlying conditions, such as a sore throat or respiratory infection, can help prevent the development of secondary ear-related issues.

Conclusion

Earache can be a disruptive and sometimes concerning condition, but with the right knowledge and care, it can be effectively managed. By understanding the common causes of earache and the appropriate treatment strategies, you can take proactive steps to alleviate the pain and discomfort, and seek medical attention when necessary. Remember, if the earache does not improve or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider.

Earache – Illnesses & conditions

Earache is a common problem, particularly in children. It can be worrying, but it’s usually only caused by a minor infection and will often get better in a few days without treatment.

Earache can be a sharp, dull or burning ear pain that comes and goes or is constant. One or both ears may be affected.

When should I contact my GP?

It’s not always necessary to see your GP if you or your child have earache. Your local pharmacist is always on hand to offer help and advice on how you can manage the problem. The pain will often improve in a few days and there are things you can do to help in the meantime.

You should contact your GP or local out-of-hours service if:

• you or your child also have other symptoms, such as a high temperature (fever), vomiting, a severe sore throat, hearing loss, swelling around the ear, or discharge from the ear
• there is something stuck in your or your child’s ear
• the earache doesn’t improve within a few days

To assess your condition at home use our earache self-help guide.

Earache isn’t usually serious and can be treated by a pharmacist. Your pharmacist may recommend that you contact your GP practice if required.

You should only contact your GP or local out-of-hours service if:

• you or your child also have other symptoms, such as a high temperature (fever), vomiting, a severe sore throat, hearing loss, swelling around the ear, or discharge from the ear
• there is something stuck in your or your child’s ear
• the earache doesn’t improve within a few days

How can I treat earache at home?

You can ask your pharmacist about using over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat the pain. Children under the age of 16 should not take aspirin.

Placing a warm flannel against the affected ear may also help relieve the pain.

Your pharmacist may also be able to recommend over-the-counter eardrops for your earache, but let them know your symptoms and ask for their advice first.

Eardrops or olive oil drops should not be used if the eardrum has burst, and they will not help an ear infection.

If you or your child has an ear infection, you should avoid putting objects in the ear, such as cotton buds, or getting the affected ear wet.

Common causes of earache

The information below should not be used to self-diagnose your condition, but it may give you an idea as to what might be causing your earache.

It does not include every possible cause, but outlines some of the most common reasons for earache.

Ear infections

If the cause of earache is an ear infection, there may be a watery or pus-like fluid coming out of the ear.

Outer ear infections (infections of the tube connecting the outer ear and eardrum) and middle ear infections (infections of the parts of the ear behind the eardrum) are very common causes of earache.

Many ear infections clear up on their own without treatment in a few days or weeks, but in some cases your GP may prescribe eardrops or antibiotics.

Read more about treating outer ear infections and treating middle ear infections

Glue ear

Glue ear (also known as otitis media with effusion, or OME) is a build-up of fluid deep inside the ear, which commonly causes some temporary hearing loss. The condition tends to be painless, but sometimes the pressure of this fluid can cause earache.

Glue ear will often clear up on its own, although this can take a few months. If the problem is particularly persistent, a minor procedure to place small tubes called grommets in the ear may be recommended to help drain the fluid.

Read more about glue ear

Damage to the ear

Earache can sometimes result from injury to the inside of the ear – for example, by scraping earwax from the ear canal using a cotton bud, or poking a cotton bud too far into your ear, which can puncture the eardrum.

The ear canal is very sensitive and can easily become damaged. The ear should heal on its own without treatment, but it can take up to two months for a perforated eardrum to heal. If you have a perforated eardrum, eardrops shouldn’t be used.

Earwax or an object in the ear

A build-up of earwax or an object stuck inside the ear can sometimes cause earache.

If there is something in your or your child’s ear that seems be causing pain, don’t attempt to remove it yourself, as you may only push it further inside and you may damage the eardrum.

If you have a build-up of earwax in your ear, your pharmacist will be able to recommend eardrops to soften it so it falls out naturally. In some cases, your GP will need to remove the wax (once softened with eardrops) by flushing the ear with water. This is known as ear irrigation.

If there is an object in the ear, your GP may need to refer you or your child to a specialist to have it removed.

Throat infections

If you find it painful to swallow and you have a sore throat, your earache could be a symptom of a throat infection, such as tonsillitis or quinsy (an abscess on one side of the back of your throat, which can sometimes make it very difficult to swallow even fluids).

Some types of tonsillitis will clear up after a few days without the need for antibiotics. But if you have quinsy, you will need to see your GP as soon as possible for treatment. You may have quinsy if your sore throat gets worse very quickly.

A problem with your jaw

Earache is occasionally caused by a problem with the joint of your jaw bone (where the jaw meets the skull). This is known as temporomandibular joint pain and can be caused by problems such as arthritis or teeth grinding.

Jaw pain can often be treated with painkillers, warm or cold compresses, and trying not to clench your jaw and grind your teeth.

A dental abscess

A dental abscess is a collection of pus that can form in your teeth or gums as a result of a bacterial infection. The main symptom is pain in your affected tooth, which can be intense and throbbing, although the pain can sometimes spread to your ear.

If you think you may have a dental abscess, make a dentist appointment as soon as possible. They may need to remove the abscess and drain the pus.

Read more about treating dental abscesses

Ear Ache vs. Ear Infection: What’s the Difference?

Ear pain can range from a minor nuisance to a major source of agony. Ear pain is a common problem, especially in children, and can have a number of causes – some of which have nothing to do with the ear.

But how to know whether it’s an ear ache or an ear infection? And when is it serious enough to seek medical help? We talked with UH family medicine physician Meredith Hale, DO, to find out.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are the most common cause of ear pain. It’s especially common in children and is the most common reason parents bring their child to a doctor. In fact, five out of six children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday.

An ear infection happens when fluid in the interior space behind the eardrum becomes infected, usually with bacteria. The tube leading into the body becomes blocked, and fluid builds up behind the eardrum. The increased pressure pushes the eardrum outward, causing pain and fever.

An ear infection often occurs after a sore throat, cold or other upper respiratory infection, Dr. Hale says. Symptoms include hearing loss, fever and feeling unwell.

Most ear infections happen to children before they’ve learned how to talk. Here are a few things parents should look for if they suspect their young child has an ear infection:

• Tugging or pulling at the ear
• Fussiness and crying
• Trouble sleeping
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Clumsiness or balance problems

Ear Ache

Ear aches are not always caused by an ear infection. Other conditions also can cause ear ache or ear pain, especially in adults.

Ear ache is often described as a feeling of pressure in the ear.

“It can begin suddenly or gradually, and it can be quite severe,” Dr. Hale says.

Aside from infection of the inner ear, other causes of ear pain include:

• Injury
• Swimmer’s ear – inflammation and infection in the channel that leads from the eardrum to the outside.
• Cellulitis — infection of the external ear and ear lobe
• Pain caused by irritation of the nerves in the ear
• Pain from a sore throat or a problem with the jaw joints
• Referred pain from infections or inflammation elsewhere in the body such as a toothache
• Allergic reactions from soap, shampoo, earrings or other allergens
• Water trapped in the ear
• Changes in altitude

Many people wonder if ear wax buildup causes ear pain. Normally, your ear canal does not need to be cleaned. But sometimes ear wax does build up, become impacted and cause symptoms, usually a sensation of fullness or muffled sound as if you are wearing ear plugs.

“When too much wax blocks the ear, you may feel pressure, but this usually doesn’t cause pain,” Dr. Hale says.

When To See a Doctor

Ear infections don’t always need to be treated with antibiotics. “Sometimes, we observe and initiate antibiotic therapy if signs and symptoms worsen or fail to improve after 48 to 72 hours,” Dr. Hale says.

If your child has repeated ear infections or trouble hearing, your doctor may suggest meeting with an ear, nose and throat specialist to discuss placing small tubes in your child’s ear to help maintain a healthy environment.

If you experience intense pain, a high fever or a hearing loss, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately, Dr. Hale says.

Related Links

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Signs of an ear infection

What is an ear infection?

An ear infection is a viral or bacterial infection of the outer, inner or middle ear. The condition is common, particularly in children, and is generally considered to be non-serious.

An ear infection can cause painful inflammation, as well as a buildup of fluid in the ear, among other symptoms. The condition may in some cases clear up without treatment, however, treatment options – including antibiotics and pain-relief medication – are available.

If you are concerned that you may have an ear infection, try using the Ada app to find out what the problem may be.

Otitis media, or middle ear infection, is the most common type of ear infection. It is an infection of the cavity behind the eardrum, which is connected to the rear of the throat by the Eustachian tube.

Usually, this cavity is filled with air. As a result of a cold or a similar condition, the cavity may be filled with mucus. When this mucus becomes infected, otitis media results.

Signs and symptoms of otitis media typically include:

• Pain in the ear (earache)
• Impaired hearing
• High temperature
• Discharge from the ear (clear, yellowish or bloody)

Pain in the ear can occur as a result of an ear infection, but it can also indicate a variety of other conditions. If a person experiences severe ear pain or if the pain lasts for longer than a few days, medical attention should be sought.

In many cases, the signs and symptoms will clear up naturally within a couple of days without treatment.

Read more about Middle Ear Infection »

If you are concerned that you may have a middle ear infection, try using the Ada app to find out what the problem may be.

Signs of otitis externa (outer ear infection)

Otitis externa is an inflammation of the external section of the ear canal, which does not reach the eardrum. Most cases are caused by bacteria.

Signs and symptoms can include:

• Itchiness of the ear
• Discharge from the ear
• Impaired hearing
• Ear pain (especially if the ear is pulled or moved)
• Enlarged or painful lymph nodes (may only be discovered upon examination, typically not by the person experiencing the infection directly)

Read more about Otitis Externa »

If you are concerned that you may have an outer ear infection, try using the Ada app to find out what the problem may be.

Signs of labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis (inner ear infection)

Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear, or the labyrinth. The condition is typically caused by a virus, and is commonly experienced at the same time as or following viral illnesses, such as a viral sore throat, cold or flu. Vestibular neuritis, another type of inner ear infection, is an infection of the vestibular nerve in the inner ear.

Signs and symptoms of both labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis may include:

• Vertigo (dizziness or a feeling that one’s surroundings are spinning or moving)
• Nausea

Labyrinthitis may also cause some mild hearing loss, as well as some of the signs and symptoms common to other types of ear infection. These include:

• Earache
• Headaches
• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
• Discharge from the ear
• Blurred or double vision

The above symptoms may also be experienced in cases of vestibular neuritis, though they are generally a lot more common with labyrinthitis, especially hearing loss and tinnitus.

If you are concerned that you may have an inner ear infection, try using the Ada app to find out what the problem may be.

Signs of ear infection in babies and toddlers

Ear infections, particularly middle ear infections, are especially common in babies and toddlers due to the relative narrowness of their Eustachian tube.

Signs and symptoms of an ear infection in babies and toddlers may include:

• High temperature (above 100.4 F or 38 °C)
• Discharge from the ear
• Increased irritability and crying
• Loss of appetite
• Pulling or touching the ear
• Sluggishness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Ear infections in babies and toddlers will usually clear up on their own, without specific treatment. However, for babies and toddlers experiencing recurrent infections that do not respond well to antibiotics, a doctor may recommend a minor surgical procedure known as a myringotomy.

The procedure involves making a small incision in the eardrum to allow fluids to drain out; a small ventilation tube, often called grommets, may also be inserted. This ear tube will typically fall out on its own in around 6 to 18 months.

Although a myringotomy and grommets are generally effective at reducing the number of ear infections experienced by young children, they can still occur. The main sign of an ear infection after tubes have been inserted is the discharge of yellowish fluid from the ear, which will commonly not be accompanied by pain or fever. Antibiotics will typically be prescribed to treat the ear infection.

If you are concerned that your child may have an ear infection, try using the Ada app to find out what the problem may be.

Signs of ear infection complications

An ear infection is generally a non-serious condition, with complications being rare. In some cases, however, minor complications can occur. These may include:

• Rupture of the eardrum: Also known as a tympanic membrane rupture, this is one of the most common ear infection complications. The rupture does not hurt and may lead to relief from earache. The rupture will usually heal quickly, but antibiotics (if not already prescribed) may be necessary.
• Hearing loss: The fluid buildup (effusion) that may occur as a result of infection can persist after the infection itself has resolved. This can cause short-term, but also prolonged hearing loss. Generally, the fluid will disappear naturally, though surgical treatment is available if it persists for longer than roughly three months.

If you are concerned that you may be experiencing a complication of an ear infection, try using the Ada app to find out what the problem may be.

Causes of ear infection

Ear infections (inner, outer and middle) are typically caused by viral or bacterial infections, often as a result of other conditions such as a cold or flu. In the case of otitis media, these illnesses can result in a blockage of the Eustachian tubes. This blockage creates a vacuum which allows bacteria to enter the middle ear.

In the case of outer ear infections, certain factors make the occurrence more likely. These include:

• Substances in the ear: Water or other substances in the ear may create an environment where an accumulation of bacteria becomes more likely. This can cause infection. The subsequent itching after infection can cause skin irritation, which may make an infection worse. As otitis externa is common in people who swim regularly, the condition is sometimes referred to as swimmer’s ear.
• Warm weather: The condition is more common in warmer countries.
• Skin issues: Irritated skin, as a result of skin problems such as eczema, may make otitis externa more likely.
• Otitis media: Ear discharge as a result of otitis media can sometimes become lodged in the ear and cause otitis externa.

Inner ear infections (labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis), in most cases, follow a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. Less commonly, labyrinthitis can be caused by an infection that affects the rest of the body, such as measles, mumps and glandular fever. In rare cases, both labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis can be caused by a bacterial infection.

Diagnosing an ear infection

A doctor will generally be able to diagnose an ear infection based on the symptoms and a physical examination. This will usually involve the use of an otoscope – a lighted, wand-like instrument – which can be used to check the ears, throat and nose for signs of infection.

Ear infection treatment

In most cases, an ear infection will pass within a few days without treatment. At this stage, over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be taken (in people over 16) to manage any pain.

If the signs or symptoms of infection are particularly severe or do not begin to improve in two to three days, a doctor’s visit is recommended. A doctor will be able to recommend an appropriate treatment route, which will typically involve a course of antibiotics, as well as (in the case of inner ear infections) medication to lessen nausea and the urge to vomit (antiemetic) or something to calm the central nervous system (benzodiazepine).

If antibiotics are prescribed, it can take between a week and 15 days for the infection to clear up. The symptoms may disappear before this time, but it is important to take the antibiotics for the entire prescribed course to ensure the infection is eradicated completely. If the symptoms of an ear infection do not begin to clear up after two to three days of beginning a course of antibiotics, medical attention should be sought as a different variety of antibiotics may be necessary.

Ear infection prevention

It is not always possible to prevent ear infections, as they often occur as a result of a cold or the flu. However, the chances of children developing otitis media can be reduced by:

• Not being exposed to tobacco smoke
• Keeping up to date with vaccinations
• Avoiding the use of a pacifier (especially after six months of age)

The likelihood of developing otitis externa can be reduced by taking steps such as the following:

• Avoiding putting things (fingers, cotton buds, etc) in the ears
• Using earplugs when swimming
• Avoiding getting water in the ears when bathing or showering

Signs of ear infection FAQs

Q: How do I know if I have a ruptured eardrum?
A: A ruptured eardrum is one of the most common complications of an ear infection. Its symptoms (hearing loss, earache, discharge, fever, etc) also mirror those of an ear infection, meaning it may be difficult to differentiate between the two. In some cases, however, a ruptured eardrum may result in no symptoms at all. Upon examination, a doctor will be able to identify a ruptured eardrum and advise on appropriate treatment methods. Generally, a ruptured eardrum is considered non-serious and will in most instances heal naturally without the need for medication.

Q: What is the Eustachian tube?
A: The Eustachian tube is a narrow canal that connects the middle ear to the throat (pharynx). Its main function is to ventilate the middle ear and to ensure that the air pressure in both sides of the eardrum remains equalized. When the Eustachian tube becomes blocked as a result of an upper respiratory tract infection (such as a cold or the flu), this can create a vacuum in which bacteria can collect and enter the middle ear. This can cause a middle ear infection.

Q: Is earache always a sign of ear infection?
A: Although earache is a common symptom of ear infection (particularly middle ear infection), earache can also be connected to other conditions such as cold, flu, a buildup of earwax or teething in children. Following an examination, a doctor will be able to identify the root cause of earache and outline treatment options.

Q: Are there any home remedies for an ear infection?
A: Ear infections will in most cases clear up naturally without treatment. However, there are a number of ways that the symptoms of an ear infection can be managed at home. Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used to manage the pain associated with an ear infection, for example. A warm or cold compress may also be useful in managing pain, as can the application of warm oil (olive or vegetable) in cases where there is no perforation of the eardrum.

Q: Should I be worried about an ear infection during pregnancy?
A: In the vast majority of cases, an ear infection during pregnancy poses no harm to your baby and – just as with an ear infection when you’re not pregnant – will normally remedy itself naturally. However, if the symptoms do not desist within two or three days it is a good idea to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Q: What are the signs of an infection around an ear piercing?
A: The signs of an ear piercing infection include:

• Red, swollen skin around the piercing
• Pain or tenderness around the piercing
• Discharge from the piercing
• High temperature

If there is a suspicion that a piercing has become infected, seek medical attention urgently to prevent serious infection.

Q: Ear infection or teething in infants?
A: Although an ear infection and teething may share some signs and symptoms, such as increased irritability, it should be relatively straightforward to distinguish between the two. An ear infection is identifiable through signs specifically focused on the ear, such as fluid discharge and the pulling or touching of the ear, as well as more general signs, such as a high fever, vomiting and diarrhea.

13 home remedies for ear infections and earaches

If you’ve ever had an ear infection, then you know how uncomfortable they can be. Earaches are painful for adults and children alike but are easy to treat if you know what to do. Let’s take a look at the best home remedies for ear infections, as well as some ear infection medications.  

Bacteria or viruses most commonly cause ear infections (acute otitis media). Ear infections often happen as a result of allergies, colds, or upper respiratory problems. When the tubes inside the ear fill up with fluid and mucus, this causes an infection. 

Kids get more ear infections than adults do, and most will have at least one ear infection before they turn 3 years old. One of the main reasons children get more middle ear infections than adults is because they have shorter eustachian tubes. 

Ear infections can cause the following symptoms:

• Inner ear pain
• Fever
• Hearing loss
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty balancing
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Sore throat

13 home remedies for ear infections 

These are the most common ear infection remedies that can help relieve pain associated symptoms:  

1. Cold or warm compresses
2. Neck exercises
3. Mullein
4. Vitamin D
5. Garlic oil
6. Chiropractic care
7. Hydrogen peroxide
8. Ginger
9. Naturopathic ear drops 
10. Changing sleeping positions 
11. Apple cider vinegar
12. Acupuncture
13. Facial gua sha

1.

Cold or warm compresses

Both warm and cold compresses can relieve pain from an ear infection. Hold either a hot pad or cold washcloth against the ear for 10 to 15 minutes or alternate between hot and cold for an easy ear infection remedy, especially for children.   

2. Neck exercises

Neck exercises that rotate the neck can help relieve pressure in the ear canal that’s caused by ear infections. Here’s how to do neck-rotation exercises:

1. Sit or stand up straight.
2. Rotate your neck to the right, so it’s parallel with your right shoulder. Hold for five to 10 seconds.
3. Repeat this exercise on the left side.
4. Raise your shoulders high like you’re trying to reach your earlobes with them. Hold for five to 10 seconds.
5. Repeat these exercises throughout the day. 

3. Mullein

Oil made from the flowers of the mullein plant has shown to be an effective pain reliever for ear infections. Mullein is available at most health food stores as a stand-alone tincture or as an ingredient in herbal ear drops.  

4. Vitamin D 

Vitamin D (Vitamin D coupons | Vitamin D details) may seem unrelated to ear infections, but it’s known to boost the immune system. A healthier immune system is less likely to be susceptible to ear infections. A 2017 study published in Acta Paediatrica showed that the risk of ear infections might be reduced by increasing serum levels of vitamin D through food consumption, supplementation, and direct sunlight.

5. Garlic oil

With antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, garlic oil ear drops can be applied to the ear canal to help kill bacteria or viruses that might be causing an ear infection. You can also soak crushed garlic cloves in warm olive oil to make your own garlic oil ear drops. 

6. Chiropractic care

Chiropractic adjustments may help relieve tight muscles around the ear, which will allow trapped fluid to drain. One study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care may decrease ear infection symptoms in young children.   

7. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can help keep ears clean and prevent dirt or additional bacteria from entering the middle ear. It’s especially helpful for preventing swimmer’s ear. Swab a tiny amount of hydrogen peroxide onto the ear canal, but be careful that too much doesn’t get into the ear itself.

8. Ginger

Well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger in the form of juice or infused oil can be applied to the outer ear canal, but it should never be put directly into the ear.  

9. Naturopathic ear drops

Naturopathic ear drops contain a variety of different herbs or essential oils that can help treat ear infections. They may have garlic, ginger, tea tree oil, mullein, or other herbs in them. The best place to find natural ear drops would be at a health food store or supplement shop.  

10. Changing sleeping positions 

If you’re a side sleeper, try sleeping with your affected ear facing up instead of down into the pillow. Sleeping with your affected ear on a pillow could aggravate your ear even more. Suggesting this to children who may not think of it intuitively can help alleviate their pain at night.  

11. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar may help treat ear infections because it contains acetic acid, which is antibacterial. Try this home remedy by mixing equal parts warm water and apple cider vinegar, and then applying a few drops to the affected ear with a dropper bottle. Alternatively, you could soak a cotton ball with the warm water-vinegar solution, put it on the outside of the ear, and let it sink in.  

12. Acupuncture

“Acupuncture is especially helpful for both earaches and ear infections,” says Sarah Emily Sajdak, DAOM, a licensed acupuncturist at Aquarius Acupuncture in New York. “Acupuncture allows for both the release of the muscles, which allows for the flow of blood and lymph to decrease inflammation, and it can also help decrease the infection using specific internal medicine points on the body to ‘clear heat,’ as it’s called, to clear the infection. ” 

13. Facial gua sha

Sajdak also recommends facial gua sha, which is a massage technique using a jade stone or rose quartz to relax muscles and improve circulation. “It can be used to release the jaw and neck muscles,” says Sajdak. “Often, tight muscles of the neck and jaw clenching stagnate the blood and lymph, thus hindering healing.”

Ear infection medicine

If natural remedies for an ear infection don’t work, over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be needed. Here are some of the most popular ear infection medications.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs can help relieve pain and fevers that are caused by ear infections. These are three of the most common NSAIDs:  

• Ibuprofen
• Aspirin
• Naproxen

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Antibiotics

Antibiotics can help clear the infection if it’s caused by bacteria. If you or your child are prescribed antibiotics for an ear infection, you must take the entire dose of antibiotics. Not finishing the prescribed antibiotics can leave some bacteria alive and lead to antibiotic resistance. These are some of the most popular antibiotics for ear infections:  

• Amoxicillin
• Clarithromycin
• Zithromax  

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Decongestants

Decongestants work by reducing swelling in the mucus membranes, which help open up the passages leading to the middle ear and relieve symptoms. Here are some examples of decongestants for ear infections:

• Afrin nasal spray
• Sudafed

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When to see a doctor for an earache

Sometimes no amount of self-care or over-the-counter medication can help an ear infection. Knowing when to see a doctor can help further complications from developing. 

If your earache is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as a fever or hearing loss, you should see a doctor. You might be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

In some cases, people with a chronic ear infection may need to have surgery. Doctors can put small tubes into the eardrum that will help prevent ear infections. The tubes allow air to flow into the middle ear and fluid to drain.  

Leaving an ear infection untreated can cause the infection to spread or cause permanent problems with balance and hearing loss.

Ear Infections in Children

An ear infection is one of the most frequent reasons parents take a child to see a doctor. This brochure will help you understand this disease and the treatment methods that may be suggested by your child’s doctor or health caregiver.

What is acute otitis media?

Acute otitis media is the medical term for the common ear infection. Otitis refers to an ear infection and media means middle. So, acute otitis media is an infection of the middle ear, which is located behind the eardrum.

There is a tube, called the Eustachian tube, that connects the middle ear to the nose. This tube helps drain extra fluid from the middle ear. When a child has a cold, swelling in the nose may impede drainage. Germs (either viruses or bacteria) can enter the middle ear and cause an infection. The infection results in increased fluid in the ear and can cause pain, fever and irritability.

When should a parent suspect an ear infection?

A parent should suspect an ear infection when a child becomes ill with fever, is irritable, and usually complains of pain in the ear. Many children who develop ear infections will first have colds. However, ear pain can be caused by other problems, such as a sore throat, without an ear infection.

How is an ear infection diagnosed?

An ear infection should not be diagnosed over the telephone. A doctor or other health caregiver should examine the child. Usually, the child should be seen within 24 hours. However, an emergency room visit is not necessary unless ordered by your health caregiver. While waiting for the office visit, you can give the child a non-aspirin pain reliever, such as ACETAMINOPHEN or IBUPROFEN, to control the pain.

During the examination, your child’s health caregiver will take a brief history and carefully examine the ear, checking the appearance and movement of the eardrum.

How is an ear infection treated?

Research suggests that many children with ear infections will get better without antibiotics, and with no ill effects. This is called the “observation option” or “watchful waiting.” This option reduces the use of unnecessary antibiotics and limits the child’s exposure to the side effects of antibiotics. It also reduces the chance that “super bacteria” — bacteria that cannot be killed by antibiotics — will develop.

Your child’s health caregiver may offer this option for your child depending on his or her age and symptoms. If your health caregiver does not discuss it, you may want to ask if this is an option for your child.

It is important that you discuss the plan with your health caregiver if the observation option will be used. If, on the other hand, antibiotics are needed, you should trust him or her to select the proper medication and course of treatment. A parent should not insist on a particular antibiotic.

If an antibiotic is prescribed, it will likely be amoxicillin, unless the child is allergic to penicillin. Depending on the situation, the provider may decide that the child should take the antibiotic for five days instead of 10 days.

Of course, differences in children, and the severity of the illness, may change these choices.

Remember, a single dose of an antibiotic will not make the ear infection feel better! In fact, the antibiotic will not relieve the symptoms. Ear pain from an infection should be treated with a non-aspirin pain reliever.

Even if your child appears better, make sure that your child takes all the antibiotics prescribed by your health caregiver.

Is follow-up care necessary?

If the child is better in 48 hours with either treatment option, the health caregiver may choose not to see the child again for two to four weeks. If, however, the symptoms are not resolved in 48 hours, the child should be re-examined.

Can ear infections be prevented?

Ear infections are very common in children. But there are things parents can do to reduce the number of ear infections their children may have.

Ear infections are not contagious or spread from one person to another, but the colds that result in ear infections are. Colds are spread when germs are released from the nose or mouth during coughing or sneezing. Anything that can reduce the spread of germs will help reduce ear infections.

Because most ear infections occur in children under the age of three, parents can play an active role in preventing them:

1. Have children use disposable tissues when they blow their noses or to cover their mouths when they cough.
2. Teach children that tissues should be used only once and then thrown away properly.
3. Do not allow children to share toys that they put in their mouths.
4. Wash dirty toys in hot, soapy water before allowing other children to play with them.
5. Teach children to always wash their hands after sneezing or coughing into them.
6. Do not allow sick children to share food or drinks.
7. Regularly wash and disinfect all surface areas and common play areas.
8. Do not share bathroom cups and other utensils that go in the mouth.

You should also remember:

1. Breastfeeding appears to lower an infant’s risk of ear infections.
2. Children under age two should not lie flat when they bottle-feed.
3. No one should be allowed to smoke around children. Secondhand smoke increases a child’s risk for ear infections. In fact, even smoke from wood stoves can irritate breathing and increase the risk of an ear infection.
4. Children in day care centers tend to have more colds and a higher risk of ear infection. Although it would be best to keep an ill child at home, this may not be possible. Parents should work with day care center staff to ensure proper handwashing, tissue use and cleanliness.

If, despite your best efforts, you think that your child has an ear infection, make sure that he or she is examined by a doctor or health caregiver. And, if there is an infection, be sure to follow the recommended treatment approaches. Always contact your child’s doctor or health caregiver first!

What To Do if You Have an Earache? | How To Treat An Earache

What to Do If You Have an Earache?

Having an earache can quickly derail your day depending on how severe it is. Medically known as otitis media, an earache or ear infection can cause a lot of pain and make it difficult to hear.

This is a common problem in children but can also occur in adults. Earaches are known to have many causes and can happen at any time, making them a common reason for a visit to urgent care.

If you’re wondering what to do about an earache, then keep reading. You’ll learn what causes an ear infection, how it’s treated, ways to ease the pain at home, and whether you should go to urgent care.

What Causes an Earache?

As mentioned, earaches can be caused by a variety of things. They may occur in one or both ears, but most commonly only one side is affected. Some of the most common causes of an earache are other illnesses.

Things like the common cold and sinus infections can cause fluid to build up in the middle ear, resulting in an infection. Allergies are another common cause for the same reason.

However, those aren’t the only causes. Things like dental problems, irritation caused by tobacco smoke, and a foreign body being stuck in the ear canal can also cause an earache. Finally, an ear infection can be caused by water that gets trapped in the inner ear after swimming, showering, or bathing.

What are the Symptoms of an Earache?

As the name suggests, the most common symptom of an earache is pain in the ear. Most commonly, this is a dull, throbbing pain. However, it can also be more intense depending on the severity of the infection.

Other symptoms that tend to go along with an ear infection include muffled hearing, a lack of balance, a fever, and drainage from the ear. Children who are unable to communicate their symptoms may frequently touch or tug on their ears and will likely be very irritable.

How to Treat an Earache at Home

Unfortunately, treating an earache isn’t always straightforward. Determining the proper treatment depends on what is causing the problem in the first place. For instance, an earache caused by a bacterial infection needs to be addressed with antibiotics while one that’s caused by smoke exposure or allergies wouldn’t respond well to that treatment.

Fortunately, there are some ways to handle an earache at home. Pain caused by an earache can be treated with a mild pain reliever like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) and a fever can be managed with acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Additionally, you can try to lay down with the affected ear on a warm (not hot) heating pad or warm rag. If that doesn’t help, try using a cold rag instead. When you aren’t doing this, try to remain sitting up as this can help your ear drain and relieve some of the pressure. Sleeping in the upright position may help as well.

Should I Go to Urgent Care for an Earache?

Most earaches get better on their own within two or three days. However, some will require more advanced treatment. If your symptoms aren’t improving after a few days, or if they get noticeably worse in a short period of time, it’s probably a good idea to visit the doctor.

Urgent care is a great place to go when you have an earache since the problem can be addressed quickly and you’ll get the proper treatment on-site.

You should also immediately visit the doctor if you have severe ear pain that suddenly stops as this can indicate a ruptured eardrum. The same is true if you have a high fever or if you think an object may be stuck in your ear.

Velocity Urgent Care Has Your Back

If you or your child is suffering from an earache, Velocity Urgent Care is here to help. Our providers will perform a thorough assessment to determine what is causing your earache so it can be treated appropriately. We can prescribe medications like antibiotics and pain relievers on-site, saving you a trip to your primary care doctor.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are taking serious safety precautions to ensure that our locations are as clean as possible. We’ve put strict sterilization protocols into place and are carefully handling patients who may be contagious to ensure that each one of our clinics is safe for those who need urgent medical care or testing.

Don’t put your health at risk by waiting to seek out treatment!

Velocity Urgent Care offers convenient online registration that helps you limit your contact with others during a visit. Patients who register online receive text message updates as it approaches their time to be seen, enabling them to choose where they want to wait.

Velocity Urgent Care is an in-network provider for most major insurance plans, meaning you can be seen for the cost of your co-pay and deductible. All of our locations also accept Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare. Veterans Administration beneficiaries are also welcome.

To find out more about our services, locations, hours, and more, visit www.velocityuc.com.

Earache, No Infection (Adult)

Earaches can happen without an infection. They can occur when air and fluid build up behind the eardrum. They may cause a feeling of fullness and discomfort. They may also impair hearing. This is called otitis media with effusion (OME) or serous otitis media. It means there is fluid in the middle ear. It is not the same as acute otitis media, which is often from an infection.

OME can happen when you have a cold if congestion blocks the passage that drains the middle ear. This passage is called the eustachian tube. OME may also occur with nasal allergies or after a bacterial infection in the middle ear. Other causes are:

• Trauma

• Improper cleaning of wax from the ear

• Bacterial infection of the mastoid bone (mastoiditis)

• Tumor

• Jaw pain

• Changes in pressure, such as from flying or scuba diving

The pain or discomfort may come and go. You may hear clicking or popping sounds when you chew or swallow. You may feel that your balance is off. Or you may hear ringing in the ear.

It often takes from several weeks up to 3 months for the fluid to clear on its own. Oral pain relievers and ear drops help if there is pain. Decongestants and antihistamines sometimes help. Antibiotics don’t help since there is no infection. Your healthcare provider may give you a nasal spray to help reduce swelling in the nose and eustachian tube. This can allow the ear to drain.

If your OME doesn’t get better after 3 months, surgery may be used to drain the fluid. A small tube may also be put in the eardrum to help with drainage.

Because the middle ear fluid can become infected, watch for signs of an infection. These may develop later. They may include increased ear pain, fever, or drainage from the ear.

Home care

These home-care tips will help you take care of yourself:

• You may use over-the-counter medicine as directed by your healthcare provider to control pain, unless medicine was prescribed. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease or ever had a stomach ulcer or GI bleeding, talk with your healthcare provider before using any medicines.

• Aspirin should never be used in anyone younger than age 18 who has a fever. It may cause severe liver damage.

• Ask your healthcare provider if you may use over-the-counter decongestants such as phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine. Keep in mind they are not always helpful.

• Talk with your healthcare provider about using nasal spray decongestants. Don’t use them for more than 3 days, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Longer use can make congestion worse. Prescription nasal sprays from your healthcare provider don’t often have such restrictions.

• Antihistamines may help if you are also having allergy symptoms.

• You may use medicines such as guaifenesin to thin mucus and help with drainage.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider or as advised if you are not feeling better after 3 days.

When to seek medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• Ear pain that gets worse or that does not start to get better 

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

• Fluid or blood draining from the ear

• Headache or sinus pain

• Stiff neck

• Unusual drowsiness or confusion

Blown ear: first aid for pain

13 December 2018

The fact that the ears hurt precisely because of the impact of the cold wind can be judged by a number of signs.

Congestion and discharge, increased pain (throbbing or aching) intensity at night, feeling of weakness, increased body temperature, enlargement (inflammation) of the lymph nodes, expansion of the pain zone in the temples and neck.This symptomatology is a serious reason for first aid and further referral to a medical specialist.

Ear pain. Taking Effective Treatment

Most often we are talking about otitis media. This is the diagnosis that the doctor makes in the absence of serious complications. The otolaryngologist, after determining the nature of the pathology, prescribes local treatment along with a possible course of physiotherapy.

Preparations in tablets

The specialist prescribes one or more types of tablets to relieve the inflammatory process (based on paracetamol).If it also affects the middle ear (pus appears), more serious therapy with antibiotics is needed.

Heating

Prescribed at normal temperature and no discharge from the ear. A heating pad, lamp, or bag of heated salt is used.

For a runny nose and headaches, the patient is prescribed:

• Special tablets for the treatment of throat.
• Means for reducing fever.
• Antihistamines to relieve edema.
• Vasoconstrictor drugs (instillation).

Ear drops

Their doctor prescribes for otitis media without fail. Perhaps the appointment of boric acid, chloramphenicol and camphor alcohol, as well as antibiotic agents. Their task is to stop the inflammatory process. Steroid hormones and antimicrobial drops are used only as directed by a doctor, under his supervision!

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90,000 types, causes, symptoms. Treatment of otitis media in an adult in the medical center “My Clinic”

10. 04.2017

Otitis

Otitis media is an inflammation of the outer or middle ear. Otitis media is equally common among adults and children. If the disease is not detected in time, it can lead to serious consequences:

• transition to a chronic course;
• development of intracranial complications

Causes of otitis media:

• adenoid hypertrophy (more often in children)
• the presence of rhinitis, sinusitis, adenoiditis

Causes of otitis externa:

• trauma (external auditory canal)
• swimming in open reservoirs, swimming pools
• decreased immunity or the presence of certain chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, allergic dermatitis, psoriasis, gastrointestinal diseases

Are important in the development of otitis externa: high air humidity, dustiness, ambient temperature (high), improper ear hygiene.

Otitis media:

Otitis externa affects the external auditory canal, partly the auricle, as well as the superficial outer layer of the tympanic membrane.
With otitis media, the inflammatory process covers the structures of the middle ear, which include: the auditory tube, the tympanic cavity, the cells of the mastoid process.
The spread of inflammation to the structures of the inner ear leads to the development of:
– acute cochlear neuritis (a sharp decrease in hearing up to the development of deafness, noise in the ear)
– vestibular neuronitis (dizziness, imbalance, nausea, vomiting)

Symptoms of otitis media

Common symptoms of otitis media are:

• temperature rise;

90,025 ear pain;

• ear discharge.

But there are also symptoms that are specific to each type of otitis media. So, for otitis externa are characteristic:

• increased pain when opening the mouth,
• swelling of the auricle.

With otitis media , unusual symptoms also appear:

• increased pain at night;
• the nature of the pain – sharp, boring or pulsating;
• pain spreading to the temples, eyes, or jaws;
• hearing loss;
• ringing and rustling in the ears.

If these symptoms appear, you must immediately come to an appointment with an ENT doctor.

Symptoms of otitis media in a child

The symptoms of otitis media in children are detailed in this article.

Otitis media

After confirming the diagnosis on examination, the ENT doctor will draw up the necessary treatment plan. In this article, we will not describe in detail the methods of treating otitis media. Only an otorhinolaryngologist on an individual basis can prescribe competent treatment, taking into account the factors of the onset and course of the disease.

Prevention of otitis media

Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of ear disease, for example:

• hardening;

90,025 taking medications to maintain immunity after viral diseases;

• timely treatment of diseases of the nose and throat.

In the medical centers of the “My Clinic” network at Gorokhovaya st., 14/26 (metro Admiralteyskaya, Admiralteisky district) and at Varshavskaya st., 59 (m. Moskovskaya, Moskovsky district) You can undergo diagnostics and treatment of any diseases of ENT organs, including otitis media, at otolaryngologist . You can make an appointment by calling 493-03-03 or on our website.

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03/31/2021

Cystitis

Cystitis is an inflammatory disease of the bladder.It occurs mainly in women, which is associated with anatomical features – short and wide …

90,000 Which doctor should I go to if my ear hurts – doctors treating the disease

Laura (otolaryngologists) Moscow – latest reviews

At the reception, my ear was cured and the doctor gave me recommendations.I can say that the doctor is polite, attentive, did his job well, quickly and efficiently. I was pleased with the quality of the reception!

Alexei,

August 12, 2021

During the appointment, the doctor conducted an examination, did the necessary prophylaxis right on the spot and eventually solved my problem.The doctor is kind, attentive, explains everything in a very accessible way. In general, I was pleased with the reception. I recommend a doctor.

Alexandra,

August 10, 2021

The reception lasted twenty minutes.The doctor examined the child, prescribed drug treatment. I will not say that I learned a lot of new things as a result. She treated her daughter well, attentively. We do not yet know how effective the treatment will be. Let’s think about whether to sign up for a return visit.

Svetlana,

August 12, 2021

I was with my son.The doctor is a good specialist, professionally approaches his work. Not aggressive, explains everything clearly. No screams. Knows his job. At the reception, Mavzhiniso Dzhalolidinovna examined the child. He treats children very well.

Ali,

August 13, 2021

The doctor is very pleasant, attentive, communicates politely, openly, professionally.The doctor explained everything to me in detail with the help of illustrations, did not advise any unnecessary procedures, told me what each of the appointments was for. The treatment prescribed by a specialist has already helped me.

Maria,

August 11, 2021

I go to the doctor regularly.A good doctor. At the reception, the doctor examined me and wrote out recommendations. This was my control visit, the specialist checked how the treatment was going. I turn to the doctor from time to time, as they advised me to. And after the first visit, I liked everything myself. An attentive, competent doctor.

Maxim,

August 13, 2021

I have the most positive reviews about this doctor.This is a positive person, this is very important for a doctor, as well as attentive and explains everything in an accessible language. The specialist did everything that was necessary for the initial appointment, he also performed the procedures, prescribed a seven-day course of treatment. For such a doctor, I will not regret the highest mark.

Moderation,

August 14, 2021

The doctor made an examination, treated the child’s ear, i.e.because it turned out to be purulent otitis media. He prescribed treatment, prescribed a treatment program, and sent him for tests. The doctor is open, attentive, and immediately sees problems. If necessary, I will recommend a doctor to my friends.

Irina,

09 Aug 2021

A wonderful person and a good doctor, I recommend this specialist.I liked how the reception was held, but so far it is difficult to talk about the results. While the doctor has prescribed a course of drug treatment, one must look at the effectiveness in the future.

Shobubu,

August 13, 2021

Was with my daughter.The doctor is very good, wonderful, wonderful. I really liked it. I explained everything. He offered what was needed, said to do the analysis that was just needed. There are no claims. I don’t need it again, but if I go.

Lyudmila,

August 12, 2021

Show 10 reviews of 14387 90,000 Discharge from the ear (otorrhea) – causes, examination and treatment | Symptoms

Acute otitis media with perforated tympanic membrane
Severe ear pain abruptly subsides when thick, whitish discharge appears from the ear

Chronic otitis media (with exacerbations)
Past eardrum perforation and / or cholesteatoma (benign growths of skin cells in the middle ear) in the past, discharge from the ear in the past.

Cerebrospinal fluid leak from recent severe head injury or neurosurgery
Obvious head trauma or neurosurgery in the recent past. The liquid may be clear or bloody.

Otitis externa (infectious or allergic)
Infectious: Often after swimming or injury severe pain (worse if you pull the ear).
Allergic: Often after using ear drops; itching (severe) and redness, pain is weaker than with infectious otitis media;
usually a rash on the earlobe where the droplets ooze from the ear canal.
Both: The ear canal is bright red, swollen and filled with organic debris.

Ear canal cancer
Discharge is usually bloody, moderate pain. Usually in older people

Chronic otitis media
Ear infections in the past and usually perforation of the tympanic membrane and / or cholesteatoma. The pain is weaker than with otitis externa.

Foreign bodies
Usually in children. Pus-filled (purulent) discharge with an unpleasant odor

Mastoiditis
Often fever, past untreated otitis media.Redness, pain on pressure in the area of ​​the mastoid process

Necrotizing otitis externa
Usually people with immunodeficiency or diabetes. Chronic severe pain. Swelling and tenderness around the ear, abnormal tissue in the ear canal. Sometimes weakness of the facial muscles on the affected side.

Examination and history taking

• First, the doctor asks the patient with ear discharge about their symptoms, possible activities / activities that could affect the ear canal or eardrum (for example, swimming; insertion of foreign bodies into the ear, including cotton swabs, and the use of ear drops ), Chronic ear infections and concomitant diseases.
• The doctor then examines the ear and surrounding tissues.

The history and examination findings often indicate the cause of the ear discharge and the examination that may be required.

Survey

• Otoscopy
• Rhinoscopy
• Study of the function of the cranial nerves

If during the examination it is not possible to immediately establish what caused certain symptoms, it is necessary to conduct additional studies :

• Audiogram
• CT of the temporal bones or MRI with contrast
• Biopsy (if there is granulation tissue in the ear canal)

Treatment

Treatment is focused on eliminating the cause of the disease.

What is a toothache and what is it like?

If you have only initial caries , then a toothache will be triggered by strong changes in food temperature or food with a pronounced taste, for example, very sweet. This pain disappears as soon as its source disappears. Therefore, it is sufficient to rinse your mouth with water, a little warmer than room temperature, and the pain goes away. But we must remember that tooth decay has already begun and this pain – is a signal to seek help from a dentist.

When caries destroys the tooth significantly, approaching the nerve, we have the so-called borderline state between caries and pulpitis (inflammation of the nerve in the tooth), when there is still no acute pain, but the tooth canal is infected. Unfortunately, it is difficult to diagnose this, so you must understand that having a deep carious cavity in the tooth increases the risk of pulpitis, even after tooth filling.

If a toothache is spontaneous, acute, paroxysmal, radiates to the ear, the temple is pulpitis. In this case, severe pain also disturbs when eating. If you are faced with such pain – is a reason to urgently seek help !!! Before visiting a doctor, it is advisable to take one of the anesthetic drugs (nimesil, ibuprofen, ketans, analgin, paracetamol). Paraceramol is perhaps the only drug approved for pregnancy.

Sometimes a toothache can subside if cold is applied to a sore tooth. Having contacted us with pain of this nature, after anesthesia, a temporary filling with an arsenic-free medicine will be placed on your aching tooth, which also has an analgesic effect.On the next visit, the canals will be filled with further restoration of the lost tooth tissues.

Toothache, which is accompanied by the feeling of a “grown tooth”, the inability to close the teeth, indicates that the inflammation has gone beyond the tooth into the surrounding tissues (periodontium). This is periodontitis. Unfortunately, pain relievers are ineffective here, or relieve pain for a very short time. An urgent need to see a doctor !!!

Advanced cases of periodontitis are treated only by tooth extraction. At home (before a visit to the dentist) warm soda baths will ease your suffering a little (dilute 1 tablespoon of soda in 1 glass of water), as well as the elimination of chewing load on the side where the aching tooth is. Turning to us with pain of a similar nature, the doctor will anesthetize your tooth, rinse the canals, give recommendations and prescribe further treatment.

What should not be done in case of toothache? Please , do not try to put pain-relieving tablets or cotton swabs with alcohol-containing preparations into the carious cavity! This will further irritate the nerve (increasing pain) and burn the gums.

Moreover, one should not resort to the so-called “folk methods” (garlic, bacon, cabbage, “conspiracies” of toothache, rinsing with vodka), etc. In no case should you warm the sick side, this can provoke complications and worsen the course of the disease.

Losing precious time, you can cause irreparable harm to the health of your teeth. Whatever you prefer to get rid of a toothache, stay realistic – you won’t be able to cure a toothache with anesthesia !!!

And do not think long about what to do.Tooth hurts – hurry to the dentist !!!

Best regards,

Sinitsa Tatyana Borisovna,

dentist-orthopedist, therapist

Doctor73 – News – Otitis externa. What to do if your ear hurts?

Otitis externa. What to do if your ear hurts?

– During the period of temperature fluctuations, diseases of ENT organs are extremely common. Inflammation of the lining of the nose and throat, which is so common with respiratory viral infections, can cause otitis externa.Valery Lisin, chief freelance otolaryngologist of the Ministry of Health of the Ulyanovsk region, head of the otolaryngology department of the Ulyanovsk Regional Clinical Hospital, spoke about how otitis externa manifests itself, what are its causes and what recommendations should be followed when treating this insidious disease.

– What is otitis externa?

– Otitis externa is the general name for a group of diseases characterized by inflammatory changes in the structures of the auricle and external auditory canal.The disease is quite common, in most cases it is acute, but it can turn into a chronic form.

– How can it be caused?

– There are many reasons for otitis externa. It develops as a result of water entering the ear and hypothermia, as a complication of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, measles and other infectious diseases, as well as ear injury or infection with a fungus.

– What are the symptoms of otitis externa?

– The main symptom of otitis media is pain.It can be sharp, aching, throbbing. It can fade out and appear again. Alertness should be caused by discharge from the ear, especially with an admixture of pus and blood. Another symptom is all sorts of hearing impairment. With otitis externa, unpleasant sensations, itching, swelling, noises similar to splashing water may appear in the ear. If you do not hear the whisper of a person who is at a distance of 5-6 meters from you, the cause may be otitis externa.

– How to behave when these symptoms appear?

– Immediately consult a doctor.Untimely treatment can lead to the appearance of pus, scars. With abscessed boils of the external auditory canal, surgical intervention may be required. The onset of purulent processes in the ear requires the use of antibiotic therapy, both systemic and local.

– Is the diagnosis based on examination?

– In most cases, a visual examination is not enough to make a diagnosis. The doctor can prescribe laboratory and microbiological studies, as well as radiation and magnetic resonance examination methods.In no case should the doctor’s prescriptions be neglected. For successful treatment, it is necessary to identify the cause of otitis externa.

– What are the preventive measures for otitis externa?

– First of all, this is the timely treatment of infectious diseases of the nasopharynx. It is necessary to timely treat not only inflammatory processes of the nose and throat, but also diseases of the oral cavity, regularly undergo preventive examinations. Before swimming in ponds or pools, wear a rubber cap and try to keep water out of your ear.Stop smoking and drinking alcohol. During the course of antibiotic therapy, alcohol is categorically contraindicated. To avoid injury to the eardrum and outer ear, avoid using ear buds and ear candles. It is enough to rinse the auricle with clean water, and after washing, gently pat it dry with a towel. If the eardrum is damaged, it is impossible to wash the ear – if water gets in, an inflammatory process can develop. Ear drops for ruptured membranes are also contraindicated.

Care instructions after earlobe puncture

Congratulations! Today you have your ears pierced. Your image has become more sophisticated and brighter. But for this event to be pleasant in your memories, it is very important that the healing process goes quickly and without problems. And this is ONLY in your hands.

We ask you to strictly follow all recommendations for care at puncture sites:

1. Needle earrings should NOT be removed within 1.5 months (4-6 weeks) after piercing.During this period, the canal is healed.
2. For the first two or three days after the puncture, you must not wash your hair, visit the pool, sauna, bathhouse, swim in water bodies. You should also refrain from physical activity and active sports. Every day (2 times – in the morning and in the evening, and best of all before taking water procedures), treat the puncture sites on both sides with special STADEX products (gel or lotion) as shown in Figure 1:

   After applying the product, move the needle-earring in your ear without removing it !!! As shown in fig.2.

3. 3-4 days after the piercing, it is necessary to regularly rotate the earrings in both directions for at least 1-2 minutes several times a day, and also move them back and forth without removing the fasteners. This is necessary to avoid stagnation in the canal, as well as to expand it.
4. Needle earrings can be removed after 1.5 months. For the first time, the fastener is removed with a certain amount of effort. In order to properly remove the earring, firmly hold it with two fingers of one hand in front of the “head”, thus creating a stop position, and with the other hand gently shade the clasp at the back.Be sure to do this with clean hands and without haste.
5. After removing the needle earrings, the channel will have the diameter of the needle of the needle, therefore it is not recommended to insert earrings with a pin diameter much thicker than the needle of the needle, also earrings with an English lock. When inserted, you can injure the canal and cause infection.

Before inserting new earrings, ALWAYS treat them with alcohol. The earlobe is a very soft and elastic tissue, therefore, over time, the channel in it will take on the diameter for earrings of any design.