What are the most effective home remedies for earache. How can you relieve ear pain naturally. Which over-the-counter treatments work best for ear infections. When should you see a doctor for an earache.

Understanding Earaches: Causes and Symptoms

Earaches can be incredibly uncomfortable and even debilitating. They occur for various reasons, ranging from infections to pressure changes. Common causes include:

• Ear infections (bacterial or viral)
• Sinus infections
• Teeth grinding
• Changes in air pressure
• Excessive ear wax
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

Symptoms often include sharp pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear, muffled hearing, and sometimes fever. While earaches can affect anyone, they’re particularly common in children.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: A First Line of Defense

One of the most immediate and effective ways to address ear pain is through over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are popular choices that can help manage pain and reduce fever associated with ear infections.

How do these medications work for earaches. OTC pain relievers target the pain receptors and reduce inflammation, providing relief from the discomfort associated with ear infections. They’re particularly effective for acute otitis media (AOM), a common type of ear infection.

Dosage Considerations

It’s crucial to follow the dosing instructions on the label carefully. For children, consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage based on age and weight. Remember, aspirin should not be given to children under 16 due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

The Power of Temperature: Cold and Warm Compresses

Applying temperature therapy can provide significant relief for ear pain. Both cold and warm compresses have their benefits:

• Cold compresses: Help reduce inflammation and numb the area
• Warm compresses: Improve blood circulation and can help fluid drainage

How should you apply compresses for maximum effectiveness. Alternate between cold and warm compresses, applying each for about 10 minutes at a time. You can use a heating pad, damp washcloth, or specially designed gel packs for this purpose.

This method is safe for both adults and children, making it a versatile option for families dealing with earaches.

Olive Oil: A Natural Remedy with Potential

Olive oil has been used as a home remedy for earaches for centuries. While scientific evidence is limited, many people find it soothing. The oil’s natural antibacterial properties may provide some benefits.

How do you use olive oil for ear pain. Warm a small amount of olive oil to body temperature and place a few drops in the ear canal. It’s essential to ensure the oil isn’t too hot to avoid burning the eardrum. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying this method, especially for children.

Exploring Naturopathic Ear Drops

Naturopathic ear drops, made from herbal extracts, have gained popularity as a natural alternative to traditional treatments. These drops often contain ingredients like garlic, mullein, and calendula in an olive oil base.

Do naturopathic ear drops actually work. Early studies have shown promising results, with some suggesting they may be as effective as conventional OTC ear drops. However, more recent research indicates that while they may provide some relief, their efficacy in treating ear infections is not conclusively proven.

If you’re considering naturopathic drops, it’s advisable to discuss this option with your healthcare provider, especially before using them on children.

Chiropractic Treatment: An Unexpected Solution

Chiropractic care might not be the first thing that comes to mind when dealing with an earache, but some people find relief through this method. The theory is that spinal adjustments can help improve drainage and reduce pressure in the ear.

Is there evidence supporting chiropractic treatment for earaches. While research is limited, a 2011 study suggested potential benefits. However, the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, and effectiveness may vary depending on the underlying cause of the ear pain.

If you’re considering chiropractic treatment for an earache, it’s crucial to obtain a proper diagnosis from a medical professional first to ensure this approach is appropriate for your specific situation.

Sleep Positioning: Alleviating Pressure for Better Rest

The way you sleep can significantly impact ear pain, especially if you’re dealing with an infection. Proper positioning can help alleviate pressure and promote drainage, potentially speeding up the healing process.

What’s the best sleep position for ear pain relief. Try sleeping with the affected ear raised rather than pressed against the pillow. This position allows for better drainage if there’s fluid in the ear. Additionally, elevating your head with extra pillows can further assist in draining the ears.

Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Beyond positioning, creating a comfortable sleep environment is crucial when dealing with an earache. Consider the following tips:

• Use a supportive pillow that keeps your head and neck aligned
• Ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature
• Use a white noise machine or app to mask any disruptive sounds
• Keep the room dark to promote better sleep

Harnessing the Power of Ginger and Garlic

Both ginger and garlic have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, valued for their natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These kitchen staples can be surprisingly effective in managing ear pain.

Ginger for Ear Pain Relief

Ginger’s natural anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential ally in fighting ear pain. How can you use ginger for earaches. One method is to apply ginger juice or warmed oil infused with ginger around the outer ear canal. It’s important to note that you should never put these directly into the ear canal itself.

Garlic: Nature’s Antibiotic

Garlic is known for its potent antibiotic and pain-relieving properties. To harness these benefits, try the following method:

1. Crush a clove of garlic
2. Soak it in warm olive or sesame oil for several minutes
3. Strain out the garlic pieces
4. Apply a few drops of the infused oil around the ear canal

As with ginger, never insert garlic or its oil directly into the ear canal.

Hydrogen Peroxide: A Cautious Approach

Hydrogen peroxide is often touted as a home remedy for earaches, particularly when excess earwax is the culprit. While it can be effective, it’s important to use this method with caution.

How does hydrogen peroxide help with earaches. The bubbling action of hydrogen peroxide can help soften and break down earwax, potentially relieving pressure and pain. However, it’s crucial to use this method correctly to avoid irritation or damage to the ear canal.

Steps for Using Hydrogen Peroxide Safely

1. Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing up
2. Place a few drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide into the ear
3. Allow it to sit for several minutes
4. Tilt your head to let the solution drain out
5. Rinse the ear with clean, distilled water

It’s important to note that if you suspect an ear infection or have a perforated eardrum, you should avoid using hydrogen peroxide and consult a healthcare professional instead.

Distraction Techniques: Managing Pain Through Engagement

Sometimes, the best way to deal with ear pain is to take your mind off it. This approach can be particularly effective for children but can also benefit adults struggling with persistent earaches.

Distraction Methods for Children

When helping a child cope with ear pain, consider the following distraction techniques:

• Put on their favorite movie or TV show
• Introduce a new coloring book or puzzle
• Have a bubble bath with plenty of toys
• Allow them to play games on a tablet or smartphone
• Offer their favorite snacks
• Engage them in storytelling or reading

For teething infants experiencing ear pain, offering cooled teething toys can provide dual relief for both teething discomfort and ear pain.

Adult Distraction Techniques

Adults can also benefit from distraction methods. Consider immersing yourself in:

• A captivating book or audiobook
• A favorite movie or TV series
• Engaging podcasts or music
• Gentle yoga or meditation practices
• Creative hobbies like drawing or knitting

The key is to find activities that capture your attention and help shift focus away from the discomfort.

When to Seek Professional Medical Help

While home remedies can be effective for many earaches, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. It’s crucial to recognize these signs to prevent potential complications.

When should you see a doctor for an earache. Consider seeking medical help if:

• Pain persists for more than 2-3 days
• You experience severe pain or fever
• There’s discharge from the ear
• You notice hearing loss or ringing in the ears
• The earache is accompanied by severe headache or dizziness
• There’s swelling around the ear or face

For children, be particularly vigilant. Seek immediate medical attention if your child:

• Is under 6 months old with ear pain
• Has a high fever (over 102°F or 39°C)
• Shows signs of being in severe pain
• Experiences difficulty hearing

Changes in Prescribing Guidelines

It’s worth noting that prescribing guidelines for ear infections have changed in recent years. Doctors are now more cautious about prescribing antibiotics, particularly for mild cases. This approach aims to prevent antibiotic resistance and unnecessary side effects.

What does this mean for treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend a “wait-and-see” approach, using pain management techniques and monitoring symptoms before prescribing antibiotics. This strategy is often effective, as many ear infections, especially those caused by viruses, resolve on their own without antibiotic intervention.

Preventing Future Earaches: Proactive Measures

While it’s important to know how to treat earaches, prevention is always preferable. By adopting certain habits and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of developing ear pain in the future.

Hygiene and Health Practices

Maintaining good ear hygiene and overall health can significantly reduce your risk of earaches. Consider the following preventive measures:

• Avoid inserting objects into your ears, including cotton swabs
• Keep your ears dry after swimming or bathing
• Use earplugs in noisy environments to prevent damage
• Practice good hand hygiene to reduce the spread of infections
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, particularly for children
• Manage allergies effectively, as they can contribute to ear issues

Lifestyle Adjustments

Certain lifestyle changes can also help prevent earaches:

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
• Maintain a healthy diet to boost your immune system
• Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress can impact overall health
• If you’re prone to TMJ issues, consider using a night guard while sleeping

Environmental Considerations

Your environment can play a role in ear health. Keep these factors in mind:

• Use a humidifier in dry environments to prevent irritation
• Be cautious when flying with a cold or sinus infection
• Protect your ears in extremely cold weather
• Avoid sudden pressure changes when possible

By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing future earaches. However, remember that occasional ear pain is normal, and if it does occur, you now have a range of effective home remedies at your disposal.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Ear Health

Earaches, while uncomfortable, are often manageable with a combination of home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. From the simplicity of warm compresses to the natural power of herbs like ginger and garlic, there are numerous options to explore before resorting to prescription medications.

Remember, the key to effective earache management lies in:

• Prompt attention to symptoms
• Trying various safe home remedies
• Knowing when to seek professional medical help
• Adopting preventive measures for long-term ear health

By taking a holistic approach to ear care, combining both treatment and prevention strategies, you can minimize the impact of earaches on your daily life. Always listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to consult with healthcare professionals when in doubt. With the right knowledge and tools at your disposal, you can face earaches with confidence and find relief effectively.

Earache: 11 Effective Remedies

Not all ear infections are bacterial or need prescription medication. You may be able to relieve ear pain with home remedies or over-the-counter medications.

Earaches can be debilitating, but they don’t always warrant antibiotics. Prescribing guidelines for ear infections have changed in the last five years. Your child might not even be prescribed antibiotics.

In fact, you could find all the relief you need in your home with treatments such as:

• over-the-counter pain relievers
• cold or warm compresses
• olive oil
• neck exercises
• ginger
• garlic
• hydrogen peroxide

Here are 10 home remedies and over-the-counter treatments for earaches.

The following 10 remedies may help you relieve your pain. That said, treatment can depend on the cause, so you may want to see your doctor first.

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers

You can use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen to control pain associated with a painful type of ear infection called acute otitis media (AOM).

They’re safe to use with or without antibiotics, but be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the label. These medications can also help lower a fever.

Talk with your doctor about the appropriate dose for children. Children and infant versions are available for many OTC pain relievers. It’s unsafe for children under age 16 to take aspirin.

2. Cold or warm compresses

People often use ice packs or warm compresses, like a heating pad or damp washcloth, to relieve pain. The same can be done for ear pain. This method is safe for both children and adults.

Place the ice pack or warm compress over the ear and alternate between warm and cold after 10 minutes. If you prefer either cold or warm, you can use just one compress.

3. Olive oil

Olive oil has some antibacterial properties, though there’s no solid scientific evidence to prove that drops of olive oil in your ear canal can soothe ear pain. That said, putting a few warmed drops of olive oil in the ear is safe and may be worth a try.

It’s still a good idea to discuss this method with your doctor first, especially for children. Make sure the olive oil is no warmer than your body temperature by using a thermometer. This will help you avoid burning the eardrum.

4. Naturopathic drops

Naturopathic ear drops are made from herbal extracts. They can be found online and in some drug stores. An early study found that drops containing herbal extracts in a base of olive oil could be just as, or even more, effective as traditional OTC ear drops.

An old 2001 study found that using these drops may lead to improvement in ear pain levels. That said, a 2019 study suggests that they don’t necessarily help when it comes to treating ear infections.

5. Chiropractic treatment

If you go to the chiropractor for adjustments, you may find that your appointment can soothe your earache as much as your back pain.

There aren’t many studies looking at the effectiveness of this. One older 2011 study suggests it may help, though how it works isn’t understood. The effectiveness will also depend on the cause of your pain, so it’s a good idea to see a doctor first for a diagnosis.

6. Sleep without putting pressure on the ear

Some sleep positions will aggravate pain from ear infections, while some can help relieve it. Sleep with the affected ear raised instead of having it faced down toward the pillow. This can help the ear drain better if necessary.

You can also sleep with your head elevated by using extra pillows. This can also help the ears drain faster.

7. Ginger

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe pain from earaches. Apply ginger juice or strained oil that was warmed with ginger in it around the outer ear canal. Do not put it directly into the ear.

8. Garlic

Garlic has both antibiotic and pain-relieving properties. Soak crushed garlic for several minutes in warm olive or sesame oil. Strain the garlic out and apply the oil to the ear canal.

9. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be used as a natural remedy for earaches, particularly if the cause is wax buildup. To use this method of treatment, place several drops of hydrogen peroxide into the affected ear. Let it sit for several minutes before letting it drain into a sink. Rinse your ear with clean, distilled water.

If it’s a child battling an earache, do your best to get them comfortable by taking their mind off the pain.

You may want to:

• put on their favorite movie
• bring home a new coloring book
• have a bubble bath with lots of toys
• let them play a game on your phone or tablet
• pick up their favorite snack
• try to get them to focus on other things

If your child is of teething age, offer cooled teething toys for chewing.

This method also works for adults. Treat yourself to a good book or a favorite movie to take your mind off the earache.

There are many possible causes of earache. Possible causes that are relatively common include:

• cavities
• sinus infections
• earwax
• tonsillitis
• teeth grinding

The most common ear infection is acute otitis media (AOM), or a middle ear infection.

It’s characterized by swollen and infected portions of the middle ear. The pain associated with AOM is caused by fluid becoming trapped behind the eardrum. Symptoms may include:

• fever
• pain inside the ear
• slight hearing loss
• feeling sick in general

Babies and children may be restless, cranky, and pull at their ears.

The best home remedy for an earache depends on the cause. If a cavity is to blame, your earache may not improve until you see a dentist. However, if it’s an ear infection, using a natural remedy could make the illness bearable as your body fights off the infection.

Be sure to check with your child’s pediatrician if your child has ear pain, especially if they are under 2 years of age.

If your child is running a high fever, or if a fever lasts longer than a day, seek immediate medical care. High fever for children is defined as:

• infants less than 3 months old rectal 100.4ºF (38ºC) or greater
• children 3 months to 3 years old rectal 102ºF (38. 9ºC) or greater
• children of any age oral, rectal, or forehead 104ºF (40ºC) or greater

Your doctor can provide guidance on whether you should try home remedies first or consider an antibiotic.

How do you get rid of an earache fast?

There’s no immediate magic cure for earache, but some natural or over-the-counter remedies can provide relief. Depending on the cause, you may need to get medical treatment.

When should I go to the doctor for earache?

Any time there’s ear pain, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to find the cause and see if you need treatment. That said, if your pain is mild, you can try to wait a bit and see if it resolves on its own. Definitely see a doctor if your pain is acute or you also have a fever.

How long should an earache last?

Many ear infections clear up on their own in about a week or two, with symptoms starting to get better after a few days. However, if your pain has another cause, it may resolve sooner or later. If the pain hasn’t resolved within several days, make an appointment with your doctor.

While there isn’t much evidence on alternative treatments for earaches, many home remedies can soothe the pain.

No Need For Antibiotics The latest guidelines from the AAP suggest that doctors should focus on pain management, not antibiotics, for ear infections. This is because ear infections often go away on their own, and the overuse of antibiotics could lead to antibiotic-resistant infections.

How to Get Water Out of Your Ears: 6 Easy Ways

Remove excess water from your ears with methods like blow drying, using different types of ear drops, and even adding more water.

Although swimming is often the cause, you can get water trapped in your ear canal from any exposure to water. If this happens, you may feel a tickling sensation in your ear. This feeling may extend to your jawbone or throat. You may also not be able to hear as well or only hear muffled sounds.

Usually, the water drains out on its own. If it doesn’t, the trapped moisture may lead to an ear infection. This type of ear infection in the external auditory canal of your outer ear is called swimmer’s ear (otitis externa).

It’s not hard to get water out of your ear on your own. These 12 tips can help.

If water gets trapped in your ear, you can try several at-home remedies for relief:

1. Jiggle your earlobe

This first method may shake the water out of your ear right away.

Gently tug or jiggle your earlobe while tilting your head downward toward your shoulder.

You can also try shaking your head from side to side while in this position.

2. Make gravity do the work

Gravity can help the water drain from your ear.

Lie on your side for a few minutes, with your head on a towel, to absorb the water. The water may slowly drain out of your ear.

3. Create a vacuum

This method creates a vacuum that may draw the water out.

1. Tilt your head sideways, and rest your ear onto your cupped palm, creating a tight seal.
2. Gently push your hand back and forth toward your ear in a rapid motion, flattening it as you push and cupping it as you pull away.
3. Tilt your head down to allow the water to drain.

4. Use a blow dryer

The heat from a blow dryer may help evaporate the water inside your ear canal.

1. Turn on your blow dryer to its lowest setting.
2. Hold the hair dryer about a foot away from your ear and move it in a back-and-forth motion.
3. While tugging down on your earlobe, let the warm air blow into your ear.

5. Try eardrops or sprays

If a doctor recommends them, consider eardrops after swimming. Over-the-counter (OTC) eardrops may help soften impacted earwax that may prevent water from exiting the ear. Some formulations may also repel water and reduce the chance of infection.

Options may include:

• alcohol-based eardrops
• hydrogen-peroxide-based eardrops, including carbamide peroxide
• oil-based eardrops, including olive oil or almond oil
• glycerol-based eardrops

Do not use these methods if you have any of these conditions:

• a middle ear infection
• a perforated eardrum
• tympanostomy tubes (eardrum tubes)
• signs of injury or infection, such as pain, swelling, warmth, drainage, or bleeding from the ear

6.

Try more water

This technique may sound illogical, but it can actually help draw water out of your ear.

1. Lying on your side, fill the affected ear with water using a clean dropper.
2. Wait 5 seconds and then turn over with the affected ear facing down. All of the water should drain out.

Warm steam may also help release water from your ear. Try taking a hot shower or giving yourself a mini sauna with a bowl of hot water.

1. Fill a large bowl with steaming hot water.
2. Cover your head with a towel to keep the steam in, and hold your face over the bowl.
3. Inhale the steam for 5 or 10 minutes, and then tilt your head to the side to drain your ear.

If at-home remedies aren’t working, don’t resort to using ear swabs, your finger, or any other object to dig inside of your ear. Doing this may make matters worse by:

• adding bacteria to the area
• pushing the water deeper into your ear
• injuring your ear canal
• puncturing your eardrum

A doctor, such as a primary care physician or an otolaryngologist (ENT) may be able to safely remove water or wax from your ear.

These simple tips can help prevent water from getting stuck in your ear in the future.

• Use earplugs or a swim cap when you go swimming.
• After spending time immersed in water, thoroughly dry the outside of your ear with a towel.

The following includes frequently asked questions about getting water out of your ear.

Will water come out of my ear naturally?

Water typically leaves the ears naturally with the help of gravity. But it doesn’t feel like it’s working, some home remedies, including eardrops and jiggling your earlobe, may help the water work its way out.

Why can’t I get water out of my ear?

If you can’t get water out of your ear, earwax or other debris may be blocking the way. If this is the case, avoid sticking anything in your ear to clear it, as this can potentially cause an infection. Sterile eardrops may help soften earwax. You may also have an ear infection known as swimmer’s ear that may require treatment from a medical professional.

What happens if you have water in your ear for too long?

If water stays in your ear, you may develop an ear infection, especially if bacteria was present in the water. This infection is called swimmer’s ear and may require treatment from a healthcare professional.

How do you open a blocked ear?

If your ear feels blocked due to water or pressure, you may be able to safely open your eustachian tubes and equalize pressure by yawning, swallowing, or applying a warm compress. If this and other remedies do not work, a medical professional may be able to help.

Trapped water usually goes away without treatment. If it bothers you, consider trying one of these home treatments to help relieve your discomfort. But if the water is still trapped after 2 to 3 days or if you show signs of infection, you should call a doctor.

If your ear becomes inflamed or swollen, you may have developed an ear infection. An ear infection can become serious if you don’t get treatment for it. It may lead to hearing loss or other complications, such as cartilage and bone damage.

A doctor can prescribe medications to eliminate infection and relieve pain.

Trapped water in your ear may work its way out naturally. Some home remedies, such as jiggling your earlobe or laying on your side so the water drips out, may help it along.

In some cases, water in your ear may lead to an infection that needs medical attention.

Avoid sticking anything, including cotton swabs or your fingers, into your ear. This can introduce bacteria or injury and lead to infection.

Read this article in Spanish.

What to do when your ear hurts – an article on the website Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Ear pain in adults or ear pain in a child is simply exhausting. Usually it is accompanied by discomfort, fatigue, sleep disturbance, loud crying. Practice shows that people with ear pain make many mistakes that lead to complications. What to do when your ear hurts? First of all, you need to consult a doctor who will diagnose ear pain and prescribe the appropriate course of treatment.

When an adult’s ear hurts or a child’s ear hurts, discomfort can occur in different departments. We will analyze them in accordance with the generally accepted classification.

Pain in the outer ear

This part of the auditory organ is considered the most unprotected for infections. Why does my ear hurt? Very often, pain occurs due to inflammatory processes caused by bacteria. Another reason is improper cleaning, physical damage, foreign bodies. All this leads to the appearance of boils and even eczema. In such cases, doctors put otitis externa.

Pain in the middle ear

Ear pain can also appear in the middle ear. The department is closely connected with the outer ear and nasopharynx. Therefore, it is also characterized by the appearance of infections. Pathologies in the middle ear are accompanied by shooting pain, pulsation, hearing loss, distortion of the perception of one’s own voice.

Main pathologies:

• inflammatory processes;

• tumors in the tympanic cavity;

• trauma and breach of integrity;

• problems in the auditory tube.

In some cases, severe ear pain may appear after going to the pool. Pain extends both to the outer ear, where the infection could have entered, and to the middle ear, where pain is caused by the strong pressure of water when diving to depth.

Pathologies of the inner ear

The defeat of the inner ear in most cases is not accompanied by pain. Therefore, here, it is best to talk about pathologies. The main symptoms: impaired coordination, periodic nausea, extraneous sounds, headaches, dizziness and rapid hearing loss. The list of the main diseases that are the result of damage to the inner ear:

• labyrinthitis;

• hearing loss;

• Meniere’s disease;

• otosclerosis.

In addition, in some cases, acute ear pain may be due to complications in other organs. For example, dental problems, trigeminal neuralgia, or swelling of the larynx.

Ear hurts, how to treat?

Sometimes, if a child’s ear hurts, the parents don’t know what to do. If acute ear pain is not possible to see a doctor, you should use painkillers. For example, take a tablet of Solpadein, Tempalgin or Pentalgin. In some cases, it is possible to use vasoconstrictor ear drops. In addition, a solution of ammonia with camphor will help. Gauze is dipped into the solution and placed in the ear for a few minutes. This allows you to get rid of pain.

Help for ear pain

Contents

• Causes of ear pain
• Otitis as a common cause of ear pain
• First aid for ear pain
• First aid for ear pain OM

Acute pain in the ear always delivers strong discomfort. Until you get to the otolaryngologist for an appointment, and the drugs prescribed by him begin to work, you will need reliable and safe ways to eliminate the painful symptom. What is the first aid for ear pain?

Contents

Causes of ear pain

Both the course of treatment prescribed by the otolaryngologist and the first aid methods for ear pain will depend on what disease caused the painful symptom. The following pathological conditions can cause pain in the organ of hearing:

1. Pressure drops. If the auditory tube does not perform its function well, then during pressure drops (when diving and ascent, takeoff and landing, traveling by car or train), unpleasant sensations arise in the organ of hearing. The eardrum retracts inward, causing ear pain, pressure, and congestion.
2. Inflammatory processes of different locations. Otitis and inflammatory processes in all parts of the organ of hearing can lead to the occurrence of painful symptoms. So, boils, erysipelas and eczema may appear in the outer ear; on average – different forms of otitis, in the internal – labyrinthitis.
3. Acute pain in the ear can occur after trauma to various parts of the hearing organ. Painful symptoms can manifest themselves due to improper hygiene of the auditory canal, the ingress of foreign bodies into it and the shocks suffered.
4. Inflammation of the parotid gland. The close location of this gland to the organ of hearing in the event of an abscess leads to the fact that patients begin to complain of severe pain in the ear.
5. Mastoiditis. One of the sections of the middle ear – the mastoid process of the temporal bone – can also undergo an inflammatory process that has become a complication of otitis media. During the course of the disease, patients complain of very intense ear pain.

Ear pain is not always associated with diseases and inflammatory processes in the organ of hearing.

Pathological conditions in other parts of the human body can provoke the manifestation of unpleasant symptoms:

ear pain may appear against the background of sinusitis, in which purulent masses press on the nerve receptors that transmit signals to the organ of hearing.

See also: By what signs can you understand that the baby has an earache?

Since a painful symptom can indicate various diseases related to different areas, only a specialist is able to establish the correct diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment for the underlying pathology. If the otolaryngologist does not find the “ear” cause of the appeared pain in your hearing organ, he will redirect you to other narrow specialists – a dentist, neurologist, surgeon or therapist.

Otitis as a common cause of pain in the ear

Otitis is the most common cause of pain in the ear. These inflammatory processes can be localized in different parts of the organ of hearing, and then the nature of the pain and its accompanying symptoms will also differ.

Otitis externa

Inflammation of the external part of the ear develops mainly under the skin of the auricle or auditory canal. This otitis media usually leads to water entering the passage or when the integument is injured.

Ear pain in otitis externa is usually located closer to the exit of the auditory canal. As purulent masses accumulate under the skin, patients also note the appearance of itching, a feeling of pressure inside the hearing organ. If the tissues of the ear canal swell strongly and the lumen of the canal overlaps, there is also a feeling of stuffiness in the ear.

Otitis media

An acute inflammatory process affecting the tympanic cavity is always accompanied by excruciating sharp and shooting pain in the ear. Due to the fact that the mucous membrane of the middle ear is densely lined with nerve endings, the painful symptom becomes the very first signal that speaks of the development of the pathological process.

The disease, in addition to pain in the ear, is accompanied by increasing hearing loss, a feeling of congestion and pressure deep inside the organ.

Pain increases at rest, usually at night – this is due to an increase in exudate pressure on the mucous membrane of the tympanic cavity.

Pain in the ear with otitis in acute form, as a rule, immediately disappears after the rupture of the eardrum under the pressure of purulent masses. But the relief of symptoms does not mean the end of the disease – if at this stage the need for antibiotic therapy is ignored, the pathology can develop into a chronic form.

See also: Hearing aid for the elderly: selection rules

First aid for ear pain

First aid for ear pain will be different depending on what pathological condition caused the appearance of this unpleasant symptom.

Pressure Drop First Aid

Earache caused by pressure drop can be relieved by simple techniques to reposition the eardrum:

• Chew gum;
• swallow saliva several times;
• close the nostrils, close the lips tightly and exhale smoothly through the nose;
• Press the tragus against the entrance to the ear canal.

Toothache First Aid

If you are sure that your earache was caused by a toothache, then you should take painkillers to relieve symptoms and make an appointment with your dentist.

Sinusitis First Aid

For earache caused by sinusitis, a series of relief measures can help you:

1. First of all, the nasal passages should be washed from accumulated mucous masses with saline solution.
2. To thin the mucus, ensure optimal humidity in the room, drink more fluids and take special preparations, such as sinupret.
3. To eliminate swelling, vasoconstrictor drugs should be instilled into the nasal passages.

First Aid for Otitis Pain

How you deal with ear pain from otitis media will depend on your symptoms. If you have a fever and discomfort increases in a horizontal position, it is better not to take risks and, after taking a painkiller, wait for the consultation of an otolaryngologist.

The fact is that if the nature of the disease is unclear, one cannot self-medicate and use folk methods based on heating. Heat will temporarily eliminate the pain in the ear, but it can also accelerate the development of pathogenic flora in purulent otitis media and lead to serious complications.

Painkiller

Taking an analgesic will help you fall asleep and calmly wait for an appointment with an otolaryngologist. Paracetamol, Novigan or ibuprofen can help you with ear pain. The last drug, in addition to eliminating the painful symptom, is able to slightly restrain the development of the inflammatory process. To enhance the action of analgesics during the day, you can drink a little coffee or strong tea.

Ear drops

Ear drops should only be used if you are sure of the nature of your condition. So, patients suffering from chronic forms of otitis media, without waiting for the consultation of an otolaryngologist, usually begin topical use of analgesic drugs. Otipax and Otinum effectively relieve ear pain, while they do not have an antibacterial effect, which means that when you visit an otolaryngologist, he will be able to freely choose the optimal treatment program for the disease for you.

See also: Prevention of otitis in adults and children

Dry heat

Applying warm salt bags to the sore ear or using a blue lamp due to the action of heat will quickly relieve pain. But the use of such a method in some cases is fraught with negative consequences. So, if the pain in the ear is caused by purulent processes in the tissues of the organ of hearing, dry heat will only provoke the development of pathogenic flora and increased exudate release.

Therefore, before consulting an otolaryngologist, it is better not to apply dry heat in order to eliminate in the ear.

Camphor compress

This is another way to relieve ear pain based on the effect of heating. You can use it only in situations where you are sure that there is no purulent process in your organ of hearing.

1. To make a warming compress to relieve ear pain, prepare gauze, fold it into 4 layers and cut a hole in the middle for the ear.
2. According to the size of the bandage, you need to cut the same pattern from polyethylene.
3. Soak the created bandage in slightly warmed camphor oil and put it on the affected ear through the hole.
4. Polyethylene is applied on top of the bandage, the entire compress is fixed with a bandage and covered with a towel to keep warm.