What are the most effective home remedies for ear infections. How can you alleviate ear pain at home. When should you seek medical attention for an ear infection. What over-the-counter treatments can help with ear infection symptoms. How long does it typically take for an ear infection to clear up on its own.

Understanding Ear Infections: Types and Causes

Ear infections can be a source of discomfort and pain for both children and adults. Before delving into home remedies, it’s crucial to understand the different types of ear infections and their causes.

Types of Ear Infections

• Inner ear infections
• Middle ear infections
• Outer ear infections (swimmer’s ear)

Ear infections can be caused by either bacteria or viruses. The location and cause of the infection often determine the most effective treatment approach.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief for Ear Infections

One of the first lines of defense against ear infection discomfort is over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. These medications can help reduce pain and fever associated with ear infections.

Recommended OTC Pain Relievers

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Ibuprofen (Advil)

When administering these medications to children, it’s crucial to follow age-appropriate dosage guidelines. For infants under 3 months with a fever, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before administering any medication.

Warm Compress: A Simple yet Effective Remedy

A warm compress can provide significant relief from ear pain. This easy-to-use home remedy can be applied multiple times throughout the day for symptom relief.

How to Apply a Warm Compress

1. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water
2. Wring out excess water
3. Hold the compress against the affected ear for up to 20 minutes
4. Reapply as needed throughout the day

The warmth from the compress can help alleviate pain and promote drainage of the ear infection.

Rest and Sleep: Boosting the Immune System

Adequate rest and sleep play a crucial role in strengthening the immune system, which is essential for fighting off infections, including ear infections.

Optimal Sleeping Positions for Ear Infections

• For middle ear infections: Elevate the affected ear to promote drainage
• For outer ear infections: Keep the affected ear exposed to air to promote drying

Proper sleep positioning can not only alleviate discomfort but also facilitate the healing process.

Saltwater Gargle: Reducing Inflammation

A saltwater gargle can be an effective method to reduce inflammation associated with ear infections, especially if the infection is related to throat swelling.

How to Prepare and Use a Saltwater Gargle

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water
2. Gargle the solution for a couple of minutes
3. Spit out the solution (do not swallow)
4. Repeat as needed throughout the day

While the saltwater should not be put directly into the ear, gargling can help alleviate symptoms if the ear infection is related to throat inflammation.

Drying Eardrops: Treating Swimmer’s Ear

For outer ear infections, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, over-the-counter drying eardrops can be an effective treatment option.

Important Considerations for Using Drying Eardrops

• Not suitable for individuals with ear tubes
• Should not be used if there’s discharge from the ear
• Avoid if the eardrum is ruptured

Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any eardrops to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific condition.

Hydrogen Peroxide: A Potential Home Remedy

Hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used as a home remedy for ear infections, although its effectiveness is debated among medical professionals.

How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Ear Infections

1. Place a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in the affected ear
2. Allow it to sit for a few minutes
3. Tilt your head to drain the fluid
4. Rinse the ear gently

It’s important to note that while hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for use in the ear, excessive use can cause irritation and inflammation. Use this remedy sparingly and discontinue if you experience any discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ear Infections

While many ear infections clear up on their own with home remedies, there are situations where medical attention is necessary.

Signs That You Should See a Doctor

• Severe pain or fever
• Symptoms persisting for more than a few days
• Blood or pus draining from the ear
• Hearing loss
• Recurrent ear infections

If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Preventive Measures for Ear Infections

While not all ear infections can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing an ear infection.

Tips for Preventing Ear Infections

• Practice good hygiene, especially hand washing
• Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke
• Breastfeed infants when possible
• Keep up with vaccinations
• Manage allergies effectively

By implementing these preventive measures, you can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections.

The Role of Diet in Ear Infection Prevention and Recovery

While diet alone cannot cure an ear infection, certain nutritional choices may support overall ear health and immune function.

Foods That May Support Ear Health

• Vitamin C-rich foods (citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens)
• Zinc-rich foods (lean meats, nuts, seeds)
• Probiotics (yogurt, kefir, fermented foods)
• Omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds)

Incorporating these foods into your diet may help boost your immune system and potentially reduce the risk of ear infections.

Understanding the Limitations of Home Remedies

While home remedies can be effective for many ear infections, it’s important to recognize their limitations and know when professional medical care is necessary.

When Home Remedies May Not Be Enough

• Chronic or recurrent ear infections
• Infections in very young children or infants
• Ear infections accompanied by high fever or severe pain
• Symptoms that worsen despite home treatment

In these cases, seeking medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

The Importance of Proper Ear Hygiene

Maintaining good ear hygiene can play a significant role in preventing ear infections and promoting overall ear health.

Tips for Proper Ear Care

• Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal, including cotton swabs
• Keep ears dry after swimming or bathing
• Clean the outer ear gently with a soft cloth
• Use earplugs in noisy environments to protect hearing

Remember, the ear is self-cleaning, and excessive cleaning can actually increase the risk of infection or injury.

Alternative Therapies for Ear Infection Relief

Some individuals find relief from ear infection symptoms through alternative therapies. While scientific evidence for these methods may be limited, some people report positive results.

Alternative Approaches to Consider

• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic care
• Herbal remedies (such as garlic oil or mullein)
• Essential oils (used externally)

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any alternative therapies, especially for children or if you have any underlying health conditions.

The Connection Between Allergies and Ear Infections

Allergies can sometimes contribute to the development of ear infections, particularly in children. Understanding this connection can help in prevention and management.

How Allergies Can Lead to Ear Infections

1. Allergies cause inflammation in the nasal passages and throat
2. This inflammation can block the Eustachian tubes
3. Blocked Eustachian tubes can lead to fluid buildup in the middle ear
4. Fluid buildup creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth

Managing allergies effectively may help reduce the frequency of ear infections in susceptible individuals.

The Impact of Ear Infections on Hearing

While most ear infections do not cause permanent hearing loss, they can temporarily affect hearing. Understanding this impact is important for proper management and care.

Potential Hearing Effects of Ear Infections

• Temporary hearing loss due to fluid buildup
• Muffled sounds or difficulty hearing clearly
• Increased sensitivity to loud noises
• Potential for long-term hearing issues if infections are chronic or severe

If you experience persistent hearing changes during or after an ear infection, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional.

The Role of Antibiotics in Treating Ear Infections

While many ear infections resolve without antibiotics, in some cases, these medications may be necessary. Understanding when antibiotics are appropriate can help in managing ear infections effectively.

When Are Antibiotics Prescribed for Ear Infections?

• Severe symptoms or high fever
• Infections in very young children
• Persistent infections that don’t improve with home remedies
• Complications or risk factors that require more aggressive treatment

It’s important to note that overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, so they should only be used when necessary and as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Long-Term Management of Recurrent Ear Infections

For individuals who experience frequent ear infections, long-term management strategies may be necessary to reduce the frequency and severity of infections.

Strategies for Managing Recurrent Ear Infections

• Regular check-ups with an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist
• Consideration of ear tubes for chronic middle ear infections
• Addressing underlying causes such as allergies or anatomical issues
• Implementing preventive measures consistently

Working closely with a healthcare provider can help develop an effective long-term management plan for recurrent ear infections.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Ear Infections

Chronic or recurrent ear infections can have psychological effects, especially in children. Understanding these impacts is crucial for comprehensive care.

Potential Psychological Effects of Chronic Ear Infections

• Irritability and mood changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating or learning
• Social withdrawal due to hearing difficulties

Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic ear infections is important for overall well-being and quality of life.

Emerging Research in Ear Infection Treatment

Medical research continues to explore new approaches to treating and preventing ear infections. Staying informed about these developments can provide hope for improved management in the future.

Areas of Ongoing Research

• New antibiotic formulations
• Vaccines targeting common ear infection pathogens
• Innovative diagnostic techniques
• Novel approaches to boosting local immunity in the ear

While these research areas are promising, it’s important to rely on current evidence-based treatments and consult with healthcare professionals for the most appropriate care.

In conclusion, managing ear infections often involves a combination of home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and, when necessary, medical interventions. By understanding the nature of ear infections, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can effectively manage these common but often uncomfortable conditions. Remember to always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially for severe or recurring ear infections.

Best ways to treat an ear infection at home

Ear infections are no fun for anyone. If you or your child gets one, you just want the symptoms to be gone as soon as possible.

The best treatments vary depending on your type of ear infection – it can be in the inner, middle or outer ear. Ear infections can have different causes, too, and can be brought about by bacteria or by viruses.

So, what’s the best way to quickly clear up an ear infection? Do you need to see the doctor, or can you treat an ear infection at home? Read on for the answers.

What are home remedies for ear infections?

Most ear infections clear up without medical care or special medicines. So if you or your child gets an ear infection, the first step is usually to treat ear infection symptoms at home. Here are options to try:

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain and fever reliever

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) is often enough to reduce the pain and fever that can come with ear infections. Of course, all medicines aren’t safe for all ages, so make sure you give your child the correct amount for their age. Learn more about ear infection symptoms in babies.

Kids over 3 months old can take acetaminophen – but if your baby has a fever, it’s a good idea to call the nurseline (612-339-3663 or 800-551-0859) for guidance on the right dose. Contact your doctor right away or go to urgent care if your little one is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

Warm compress for an ear infection

A warm compress can help reduce ear pain. Just a soak a washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess water and then hold it against the infected ear for up to 20 minutes. If the compress seems to help with the pain, reapply the compress throughout the day.

Rest

Sleeping and resting strengthens the immune system and helps your body fight off infections and other sickness. But it’s best not to sleep on your infected ear – and not just because it’s uncomfortable.

If you’re an adult with a middle ear infection, elevating the affected ear makes it easier for the infection to drain out. So, sleep on your other side or tuck a few extra pillows under your head if sleeping on your back.

If you have an outer ear infection, keep blankets and hair away from your ear. The airflow on your ear can help it stay dry, allowing it to heal faster.

Saltwater gargle

Saltwater is known as an effective way to reduce inflammation. And saltwater could help an ear infection as well – just don’t put the salt water directly in your ear. Instead, add one teaspoon salt to one cup of warm water and gargle it for a couple minutes. If your ear infection is related to a swollen throat, this can help reduce your symptoms.

Drying eardrops for an ear infection

If you or your child has an outer ear infection, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, using fluid-drying eardrops might help. You can buy OTC eardrops for swimmer’s ear at retail stores and online.

Using fluid-drying eardrops is not appropriate for people who have ear tubes. They also shouldn’t be used if there’s discharge coming from your ear or if your eardrum is ruptured. So before using eardrops for you or your child’s ear infection, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor to make sure they’re safe to use.

Hydrogen peroxide

There’s a chance that putting hydrogen peroxide in your ears could help with an ear infection. To try it, place a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your affected ear, let it sit for a few minutes, then tilt your head over a sink to let the fluid drain out before rinsing off your ear.

Is it safe to put hydrogen peroxide in your ear?

Yes, but it’s important not to use too much hydrogen peroxide or repeat the procedure too frequently, as it can cause irritation, pain and inflammation.

Home remedies used to treat related illnesses

Decongestants, antihistamines and cold medicines won’t cure an ear infection, but it’s possible that they could help with your symptoms. For example, if you treat allergy symptoms and get rid of the sniffles from a cold or flu, you may be able to reduce the swelling that’s blocking things up.

Avoid using Q-tips for ear infection cleaning

If your ears are feeling plugged up, you may think about using a Q-tip to clean them out. Is this a good idea? In most cases, no.

You should never put a Q-tip in your ear canal – and this is especially true if there’s an infection inside the ear. While it seems like it might be good way to clean things out, using a Q-tip in your ear can actually push infected fluid farther into your ear, making your infection worse.

It’s okay to use a Q-tip to carefully clean the outer ear, the part that you can see. But chances are it won’t help much with your ear infection symptoms.

When should I talk to a doctor about an ear infection?

If the ear infection symptoms don’t improve within a few days, make a primary care appointment. Other signs that it’s time to see a doctor include:

• Ear pain that lasts more than two days
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Changes or loss of hearing
• Fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit
• Frequent or recurrent ear infections

Should I use antibiotics for an ear infection?

Antibiotics are a medicine prescribed by your doctor. If you’re dealing with an ear infection caused by bacteria, you’ll likely need antibiotics. They are the best way of quickly getting rid of a bacterial infection and preventing it from spreading to other parts of the body.

The catch is that antibiotics don’t work against viruses – if you use antibiotics on a viral ear infection, it can actually make the infection worse. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to a condition called antibiotic resistance, which means that the medicine becomes less effective at fighting off bacteria.

That’s why doctors are careful about using antibiotics wisely and may not immediately prescribe them for ear infections.

When your doctor may prescribe antibiotics

While every situation is unique, there are several factors that doctors consider when recommending antibiotics:

• What they see– If the infection is in the outer ear, it may be clear it’s caused by bacteria. In this case your doctor may recommend antibiotic eardrops to help clean out the ear infection. If your doctor can’t see the ear infection because it’s on the inside of the ear, they may not prescribe antibiotics right away.
• How long it’s been– Viral infections typically go away on their own in 1-2 weeks. If the ear infection has been around for less than a week, your doctor may recommend waiting to see if the ear infection goes away on its own, a sign that it’s viral. If it’s been more than a week, your doctor may recommend starting antibiotics.
• Your child’s age– The doctor may be more likely to prescribe antibiotics for children under 2 years old, especially if they have infections in both ears, have pain that’s moderate to severe, or have a fever.
• Symptoms– If you or your child have certain symptoms, such as an extremely high fever or severe dehydration, your doctor may recommend starting antibiotics sooner.
• Medical conditions– Your doctor may recommend starting antibiotics right away if there are certain medical conditions, such as cleft palate or repeat infections, that could lead to problems with an ear infection. In most cases, antibiotics will also be recommended when someone with a cochlear implant gets an ear infection.

What if my ear infection doesn’t go away after antibiotics?

If you or your child finish your course of antibiotics, but it seems like the ear infection hasn’t gone away, make an appointment with your doctor. They’ll help figure out what’s going on and what to do next. There’s a chance that your doctor may prescribe a different type of antibiotic to see if it works better.

It’s also possible that the infection is gone but the symptoms aren’t. This can happen if there’s still fluid trapped in the ear, causing a plugged-up feeling, pain or hearing loss. Most of the time the fluid in ears drains within a couple of weeks, but sometimes it sticks around longer.

What happens if an ear infection is left untreated?

Fluid buildup in the ear can be damaging – even if there’s no infection – and may lead to a ruptured eardrum and hearing loss. So, it’s important to see the doctor if symptoms remain after finishing the antibiotics. They’ll likely want to take a look in your ear and learn more about your symptoms.

Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend you see an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. The ENT doctor may recommend surgery to place small metal or plastic tubes in the ear canal to make it easier for the fluid to drain out. Your doctor may also recommend ear tube surgery for your child if they have recurrent ear infections.

How to prevent ear infections

Ear infections generally come after another illness caused by viruses or bacteria. Anything you can do to keep from getting sick or boost your immune system, should also help reduce your chance of ear infections. Here are ways to keep yourself and your family healthy:

• Wash hands frequently. This helps to stop the spread of germs that make you sick.
• Get vaccinated. Make sure both you and your child get a flu shot and other recommended vaccinations by age. Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways of preventing viral and bacterial infections, which can turn into ear infections.
• Stay away from cigarette smoke. Secondhand smoke makes it more likely that you, or your child, will get an ear infection. So, don’t smoke around your child. Better yet, talk to your doctor about quitting – giving up smoking is one of the best things you can do for your own health and the health of your family.
• When possible, limit the number of kids your child is around. If your child is around fewer kids, they’ll be around less germs that can get them sick.
• Breastfeed your baby. Breast milk contains antibodies that boost baby’s immune system, reducing the risk of ear infections. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding for at least 12 months and that, for the first six months, baby eats nothing else.
• Hold your baby when they’re eating. If baby is bottle feeding, hold them in one arm and the bottle in the other hand. If baby eats lying down or falls asleep sucking on a bottle, fluids can collect in their ear, increasing the chance of ear infections.
• Limit pacifier use. Pacifiers are recommended to help your baby sleep safely and can reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome. However, the AAP recommends stopping use of the pacifier at around 6 months – babies who continue using pacifiers after 12 months are more likely to have ear infections.
• Talk to your doctor. If you or your child have frequent ear infections – three in 6 months or four within a year – ask your doctor if ear tubes might be a good option.

Types of ear infections: Causes, symptoms & how to get help

Your ear has been itchy ever since you swam in that smelly pool. Your toddler has been tugging on their ear for the last week. Your elderly mother, who’s just recovered from pneumonia, has ear pain and is feeling dizzy. Are these all signs of ear infections?

They can be. Different types of ear infections have varying symptoms and affect people in different ways. Read on for answers about ear pain, itchy ears, the difference between viral and bacterial ear infections, and more.

What causes an ear infection?

Ear infections start when fluid containing bacteria or viruses get trapped in your ear. Over time, these trapped germs can grow into an ear infection.

These germs often come from other illnesses that cause swelling and congestion in your nasal passages and throat. That’s why symptoms of ear infections can show up 2-7 days after the beginning of a cold or upper respiratory infection. But these germs can also come from water that you swim or bathe in.

Are ear infections contagious?

No, but viruses and bacteria that cause ear infections can spread from one person to another. In other words, you can’t give someone your ear infection, but you can spread the germs that caused it.

Can an ear infection be a sign of COVID-19?

There’s no clinical data that shows a connection between ear infections and COVID-19. However, it’s possible that newer strains of COVID-19 may affect people in different ways.

Although COVID-19 and ear infections can cause fever and headache, with COVID-19 you don’t usually get ear pain, hearing loss or fluid drainage from the ear. Also, keep in mind that it’s possible to get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time – and viral ear infections can sometimes be caused by the flu.

What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

Fluid and germs can get stuck in the outer, inner or middle part of the ear, causing different types of ear infections and symptoms.

Outer ear infections

An external ear infection is often referred to as swimmer’s ear. It’s possible for bacteria to grow in the water that’s left in your ear after swimming or bathing. This normally isn’t a problem. But, if you have a scratch or sore on your ear, it can lead to a bacterial infection.

Common outer ear infection symptoms

• Redness on the outer ear
• Itchiness
• Ear pain and congestion
• Yellow or yellow-green discharge
• Swollen ear or neck
• Hearing changes or loss
• Fever, usually between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit

Inner ear infections

This type of ear infection, also known as labyrinthitis, happens when your inner ear gets swollen or irritated because of a cold, flu, allergies or another condition such as meningitis.

Common inner ear infection symptoms

• Dizziness, nausea and vomiting
• Ear pain
• Balance issues
• Hearing changes or loss

Middle ear infections

Middle ear infections are known as otitis media. They are the most common type of ear infection, especially in children. Middle ear infections usually happen when the Eustachian tubes that connect your ears to your throat are swollen from a cold, flu or allergies.

When your Eustachian tubes are working normally, they drain fluid from the middle ear. But if they’re swollen because you’re sick, the fluid can’t drain. Instead, that fluid collects behind your eardrum and makes it more likely for germs to grow into an ear infection.

It’s also possible for swollen adenoids (lumps of tissue in the back of the nose) to prevent ear fluid from draining. If the adenoids are enlarged or irritated, they can block the opening of the Eustachian tubes.

Common middle ear infection symptoms

• Ear pain
• Fever, usually between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Headaches
• Fluid coming from the ear
• Hearing changes or loss
• Balance issues
• Sore throat

Sometimes people can have symptoms of a middle ear infection such as hearing loss without actually having an infection. This is caused by inflammation and fluid buildup in the middle ear. Hearing usually goes back to normal once the fluid drains – which could take weeks. Learn about hearing tests and when to get them.

How can I tell if my infant or child has an ear infection?

If your little one has an ear infection, they won’t be able to tell you in words, but you’ll likely be able to tell through their actions. Chances are, they’ll:

• Be fussy
• Pull at their ears and cry
• Have trouble sleeping
• Have a fever, usually between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit

How do you know if an ear infection is viral or bacterial?

It can be difficult to tell, at least in the beginning. If you or your child is recovering from a virus (cold or flu), it’s probably more likely you’re dealing with a viral ear infection. If strep throat or pneumonia has been in the house, there’s a greater chance that it’s bacterial. But that’s not always the case.

Symptoms are similar with viral and bacterial infections. One difference is you have a higher fever with a bacterial ear infection. However, fevers can also happen with viral infections.

Often, it’s a bit of a waiting game. If the ear infection goes away on its own within a week or so, you can assume it was caused by a virus. If it isn’t improving after a week, it might be a bacterial infection and you should definitely seek medical treatment.

Who is most likely to get an ear infection?

Anyone can get an ear infection. But you’re more likely to get ear infections if you have allergies or other conditions that cause congestion. You may also get more ear infections if you have a weakened immune system and are often sick.

A person’s anatomy can also increase their chance of getting an ear infection. That’s why ear infections are more common in young children and in people with birth defects or medical conditions, such as cleft palate or Down syndrome.

Ear infections in children

Why do children get ear infections?

Infants and young children between 3 months old and 3 years old are much more likely to get ear infections than adults. In fact, most children will have at least one ear infection. The main reasons are:

• Differences in Eustachian tubes. These tubes in your ears are shorter and narrower when you’re younger, so it’s easier for them to become blocked. Additionally, the tubes in infants and young children are usually more horizonal than those in adults which means that it’s harder for fluid to drain.
• Their developing immune system. When infants are about 6 months old, they start losing some of the immunity they were born with. At the same time, babies start becoming more social, sharing both toys and germs. Breastfeeding is one effective way to help strengthen your child’s immune system.

What can increase your child’s risk for ear infections?

• Being exposed to cigarette smoke. Cigarette smoke irritates the Eustachian tubes and causes them to swell.
• Lying flat while bottle feeding. Milk or formula can travel up the Eustachian tubes, causing irritation and swelling.
• Pacifier use. Using a pacifier can affect how the Eustachian tubes work. But using a pacifier can be helpful in safe sleep for babies and preventing sudden infant death syndrome. So, talk to your doctor about when your baby should stop using a pacifier – most of the time it’s when they’re about 6 months old.
• Being in a large childcare center. More kids mean more germs, making it more likely that your child could get repeat ear infections.

Ear infections in adults

What risk factors make certain adults more likely to get an ear infection?

Adults with weakened immune systems and certain medical conditions may be more likely to get ear infections. For example, if you have diabetes, it can cause an inflammatory response throughout your body – including your middle and inner ear. Having skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis may also increase the chance that you get an outer ear infection.

How long do ear infections last?

In many cases, ear infections clear up in a couple of weeks without treatment. But some ear infections can last for months.

So why do some ear infections last longer than others? The reasons include your health, the location of the infection and what’s causing the infection. Inner ear infections tend to stick around longer than infections of the middle or outer ear. And infections caused by bacteria usually last longer than ones caused by viruses.

When is an ear infection considered to be chronic?

If an ear infection lasts for more than three months, it’s considered chronic. If chronic ear infections aren’t treated, it can lead to hearing loss and other serious problems. In children, chronic ear infections can affect their ability to achieve developmental milestones, like walking and talking.

Is a chronic ear infection curable?

If your child has an ear infection for a few months and it’s affecting their ability to hear, your doctor may recommend a minor surgery to put in ear tubes for chronic ear infections.

During ear tube surgery, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor inserts small plastic or metal tubes into the eardrum. These tubes help drain the built-up fluid that can cause ear infections. Ear tubes usually fall out on their own within about a year.

What are recurring ear infections?

People of all ages can get frequent ear infections, but they are especially common in children – about 25% of children experience repeat ear infections. If you or your child has three or more ear infections in a six-month period or four within one year, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about treatment options.

Are recurrent ear infections curable?

Your doctor may recommend ear tube surgery to make it less likely for you or your child to get future ear infections.

Your doctor may also suggest a tonsillectomy as a treatment for infected tonsils and adenoids. This surgery involves removing lumps of tissue from the back of your nose and throat. Getting a tonsillectomy may make it easier for fluid to drain from your ears, reducing the chance of trapped fluid that can cause an ear infection. A tonsillectomy is usually only recommended when antibiotics and ear tubes don’t work.

What should I do about an ear infection?

If it’s only been a couple of days and the only symptom has been ear pain, you don’t need to head to the doctor right away. Because many ear infections go away on their own, it’s likely your doctor will want to wait and see how the symptoms improve before providing prescription medicines.

In the meantime, focus on getting lots of rest. Sleeping strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight off infections and other sickness.

If the ear infection is causing pain or discomfort, there are treatments for ear infections you can try at home. One of the simplest is using a warm compress to dull the pain. Just soak a washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess water and then hold it against the infected ear for up to 20 minutes. If it helps, reapply the compress throughout the day.

If your child is over 3 months old, an over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) can also help with the pain – just make sure you’re using an age-appropriate dose. If you have questions, contact your doctor or nurse line.

When should I go to the doctor for an ear infection?

While many ear infections can be treated at home, some need medical attention. You’ll want to talk to a doctor or nurse if:

• Your baby has a fever, especially if they are younger than 3 months old, or if your older baby’s temperature is above 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The ear infection symptoms aren’t getting better after a couple of days.
• There’s fluid draining from the ear.
• You or your child is experiencing changes or loss of hearing.
• The infection has lasted for more than six weeks.
• You or your child is experiencing frequent or recurrent ear infections.

However you want to talk to us, we’re all ears

We’re here to make sure you get the care you need, day or night. Here are care options that may work based on your needs:

Nurse Line

If you’re wondering what to do about your baby’s fever or how to manage minor ear infection symptoms, a great place is to start is with the HealthPartners CareLine. Our members and patients can call us 24/7 day at 800-551-0859 or 952-993-4665.

Virtuwell visit

You can start an online Virtuwell visit any time, day or night to get an ear infection diagnosis and treatment plan for yourself or a child over age 5. In general, the doctor will prescribe a treatment plan that’s a combination of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. In some cases, they’ll prescribe antibiotics for adults. They’ll also prescribe kids antibiotics for swimmer’s ear.

In-person or video visit with your primary care doctor

You can also schedule a virtual appointment with the doctor that usually cares for you or your child. They’ll have the best information about your family’s health and what treatments may be appropriate. If necessary, your child’s primary care doctor can prescribe antibiotics and recommend additional treatments.

Keep in mind that if it’s only been a couple days since the ear infection started, you may not get a prescription for antibiotics. Your doctor will likely recommend treating the ear infection with OTC pain relievers and scheduling another appointment after a week or so. If you start with a video visit, it’s also possible that the doctor may want to see you or your child in person.

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

The appearance of acute pain in the ear always causes severe 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 may occur after injury 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, you need to prepare gauze, fold it into 4 layers and cut a hole in the middle for the auricle.
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.

The compress is done for 5-6 hours. After this time, gauze and polyethylene are removed, and the ear canal is closed with a cotton ball. To preserve the effect, you should put on a knitted cap covering your ears on your head.

Herbal candles

Ear herbal funnels are tubes impregnated with a special medicinal composition. The action of candles is based on the soft heating of the ear canal and the evaporation of natural essential oils.

Phytocandles are usually used to facilitate the release of sulfuric plugs, so if you are sure that the pain in the ear is caused by the accumulation of masses in the auditory canal, you can safely use this method.

Phyto-funnels, by gently warming the ear tissues, contribute to the fact that severe pain goes away, and due to the action of essential oils and other natural components (propolis, beeswax) they suppress the growth of pathogenic flora.