How can you alleviate earache pain at home. What natural remedies are effective for ear infections. Which over-the-counter treatments provide relief from ear discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for an earache.

Understanding Earaches: Causes and Symptoms

Earaches can be incredibly uncomfortable, causing sharp or dull pain in one or both ears. While ear infections are a common cause, earaches can stem from various sources. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment.

Common causes of earaches include:

• Bacterial or viral infections
• Allergies
• Sinus pressure
• Tooth infections
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Changes in air pressure
• Excessive earwax buildup

Symptoms accompanying earaches may vary but often include:

• Pain inside the ear
• Difficulty hearing
• Fever
• Drainage from the ear
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Nausea

Are all ear infections bacterial? Not necessarily. Many ear infections are viral in nature, which is why antibiotics are not always prescribed. In recent years, medical guidelines have shifted towards a more conservative approach in treating ear infections, especially in children.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief for Earaches

One of the most accessible and effective ways to manage earache pain is through over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. These medications can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation associated with ear infections.

Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are two common OTC pain relievers that can effectively manage ear pain. These medications work by reducing inflammation and lowering fever, which often accompanies ear infections.

How should you use OTC pain relievers for earaches? Follow these guidelines:

1. Always read and follow the dosing instructions on the label
2. For children, use age-appropriate formulations and consult with a pediatrician for proper dosing
3. Avoid giving aspirin to children under 16 due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome
4. Consider alternating between ibuprofen and acetaminophen for more consistent pain relief

Can OTC pain relievers be used alongside antibiotics? Yes, these medications are safe to use with or without antibiotics, but always consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Hot and Cold Compresses: Simple Yet Effective Relief

Applying temperature therapy to the affected ear can provide significant relief from earache pain. Both hot and cold compresses have their benefits, and alternating between the two can be particularly effective.

Using Cold Compresses

Cold therapy can help numb the area and reduce inflammation. To use a cold compress:

1. Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables in a thin towel
2. Apply the compress to the outer ear for 10-15 minutes
3. Remove for at least 5-10 minutes before reapplying

Applying Warm Compresses

Heat therapy can improve blood circulation and provide soothing relief. To use a warm compress:

1. Dampen a clean washcloth with warm (not hot) water
2. Apply the compress to the ear for 10-15 minutes
3. Alternatively, use a heating pad on a low setting

Is it safe to use compresses on children? Yes, both cold and warm compresses are generally safe for children and adults. However, always supervise children during treatment and ensure the temperature is comfortable.

Natural Remedies: Olive Oil and Herbal Extracts

For those seeking natural alternatives, several home remedies have been traditionally used to alleviate earache pain. While scientific evidence may be limited, many people find relief through these methods.

Olive Oil as an Ear Drop

Olive oil has mild antibacterial properties and may help soothe ear discomfort. To use olive oil for earaches:

1. Warm a small amount of olive oil to body temperature
2. Use a clean dropper to place a few drops in the ear canal
3. Gently massage the area around the ear
4. Allow the oil to drain out naturally after a few minutes

Does olive oil actually help with ear infections? While there’s no conclusive scientific evidence, many people report relief from using warm olive oil drops. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before trying this method, especially for children.

Naturopathic Ear Drops

Herbal extracts in an olive oil base have shown promise in treating ear pain. These naturopathic ear drops often contain ingredients such as:

• Garlic
• Mullein
• Calendula
• St. John’s Wort
• Lavender

Are naturopathic ear drops as effective as traditional treatments? Some studies suggest that herbal ear drops may be as effective as traditional OTC ear drops in managing ear pain. However, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy in treating ear infections.

Alternative Therapies: Chiropractic Care and Sleep Positioning

Sometimes, unconventional approaches can provide unexpected relief from earaches. Two such methods include chiropractic adjustments and strategic sleep positioning.

Chiropractic Treatment for Earaches

While not typically associated with ear health, chiropractic care may offer relief for some individuals experiencing ear pain. The theory behind this approach is that misalignments in the spine can affect the nerves connected to the ears, potentially contributing to ear discomfort.

How might chiropractic care help with earaches?

• Adjustments may improve drainage from the ears
• Spinal manipulation could potentially alleviate pressure on nerves affecting the ears
• Improved overall alignment may support the body’s natural healing processes

Is chiropractic treatment effective for all types of earaches? The effectiveness of chiropractic care for earaches can vary depending on the underlying cause. It’s crucial to obtain a proper diagnosis from a medical professional before pursuing this treatment option.

Optimal Sleep Positioning

The way you sleep can significantly impact ear pain, especially if you have an ear infection. Proper positioning can help facilitate drainage and reduce pressure on the affected ear.

Tips for sleeping with an earache:

1. Elevate your head using extra pillows
2. Sleep with the affected ear facing up, rather than down into the pillow
3. Use a neck pillow to maintain proper alignment
4. Consider sleeping in a recliner chair for optimal elevation

Can sleep position alone cure an ear infection? While proper sleep positioning won’t cure an infection, it can help alleviate symptoms and potentially speed up the healing process by promoting better drainage.

Herbal and Natural Solutions: Ginger, Garlic, and Hydrogen Peroxide

Nature provides several remedies that have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including earaches. Ginger, garlic, and hydrogen peroxide are among the most popular natural treatments for ear discomfort.

Ginger: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Ginger has long been prized for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce pain and swelling associated with earaches.

How to use ginger for ear pain relief:

1. Extract fresh ginger juice or warm ginger-infused oil
2. Apply the juice or oil around the outer ear canal
3. Gently massage the area to promote absorption
4. Repeat this process a few times daily

Is ginger safe for all types of ear pain? While generally safe for external use, avoid applying ginger directly into the ear canal. If you suspect a perforated eardrum, consult a healthcare provider before using any home remedies.

Garlic: Nature’s Antibiotic

Garlic is renowned for its antimicrobial and pain-relieving properties, making it a popular choice for treating earaches.

To harness garlic’s potential benefits:

1. Crush a clove of garlic and soak it in warm olive or sesame oil for several minutes
2. Strain the garlic out, retaining the infused oil
3. Apply a few drops of the oil around the ear canal
4. Gently massage the area

Can garlic actually fight ear infections? While garlic does have antimicrobial properties, its effectiveness against ear infections hasn’t been scientifically proven. Always consult with a healthcare professional before relying solely on natural remedies.

Hydrogen Peroxide: Clearing Ear Wax

Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective solution for earaches caused by excess earwax buildup. Its effervescent action helps soften and dislodge wax, potentially providing relief.

Steps for using hydrogen peroxide in the ear:

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 canal
3. Allow it to sit for several minutes, you may hear a fizzing sound
4. Tilt your head to let the solution drain out
5. Rinse the ear with clean, distilled water

Is hydrogen peroxide safe for all ear conditions? While generally safe for occasional use, hydrogen peroxide should not be used if you suspect a perforated eardrum or have a history of ear problems. Always consult with a healthcare provider before attempting this method.

Comfort Measures and Distraction Techniques

Sometimes, the best way to deal with ear pain is to focus on overall comfort and distraction, especially for children. These techniques can help make the experience more bearable while waiting for other treatments to take effect.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

Setting up a cozy, relaxing space can help alleviate stress associated with ear pain. Consider the following:

• Adjust room temperature for optimal comfort
• Use soft lighting to reduce sensory stimulation
• Provide plenty of pillows for positioning support
• Ensure easy access to water and preferred snacks

Distraction Methods for Children and Adults

Taking the mind off the pain can be an effective way to manage discomfort. Try these distraction techniques:

1. Watch favorite movies or TV shows
2. Engage in quiet activities like coloring or reading
3. Listen to soothing music or audiobooks
4. Practice deep breathing or guided imagery exercises
5. For children, provide special toys or games reserved for “sick days”

How effective are distraction techniques in managing ear pain? While they don’t address the underlying cause, distraction methods can significantly reduce the perception of pain and help both children and adults cope better with discomfort.

Special Considerations for Teething Infants

For babies experiencing ear pain related to teething, additional comfort measures may include:

• Offering cooled teething toys
• Gently massaging the gums with a clean finger
• Using age-appropriate teething gels (consult with a pediatrician first)
• Providing extra cuddles and attention

Can teething cause ear pain in infants? Yes, the pain from teething can sometimes extend to the ears due to shared nerve pathways. However, it’s important to rule out actual ear infections, which can coincide with teething periods.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Earaches

While many earaches can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation. Knowing when to seek help is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Care

Seek immediate medical attention if you or your child experience any of the following:

• Severe pain that suddenly worsens
• Bloody or pus-like discharge from the ear
• Sudden hearing loss
• High fever (over 102°F or 39°C)
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Swelling or redness behind the ear
• Stiff neck or severe headache

Persistent Symptoms Requiring Evaluation

Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if:

1. Ear pain lasts more than 2-3 days
2. Symptoms worsen despite home treatment
3. You have a history of ear problems
4. There’s recurring ear pain without obvious cause
5. You’re unsure about the cause of the ear pain

How do doctors diagnose the cause of ear pain? Healthcare providers typically use an otoscope to examine the ear canal and eardrum. They may also perform additional tests such as tympanometry to assess eardrum function or audiometry to evaluate hearing.

Remember, while home remedies can provide relief for many earaches, they are not substitutes for professional medical care when needed. Always err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare provider if you’re uncertain about the severity or cause of ear pain.

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.

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.

9 Home Remedies for Ear Pain

Many consider mild ear pain to be annoying, but it can get worse and become debilitating. The symptom may become unbearable, making it difficult to sleep and eat. If you experience severe pain in your ear, you should consult a doctor, especially if it occurred for the first time. While waiting for medical attention, you can try some home remedies to reduce the severity of the symptom, experts say.

Ear infection is the most common cause of ear pain. During the infectious process, inflammation and increased pressure inside the ear cause an increase in pain. With ear infections, additional symptoms appear – increased pressure in the sinusoidal sinuses or sore throat (the infection spreads to nearby organs). Most ear infections are bacterial in origin and can only be diagnosed by a doctor.

In addition to infection, ear pain can be caused by chronic conditions (such as mandibular joint disorders), skin infections, allergic reactions to earring, soap or shampoo, water ingress, or changes in pressure inside the ear. Ear pain can be synalgia – a reflected (reflex) pain caused by a violation in other parts of the body, scientists say.

Some remedies help relieve ear pain at home, below are 9the most famous of them.

Heat. An electric heating pad or hot compress may help reduce inflammation and pain in the ear. Compresses should be applied for 20 minutes, and for a better result, apply heat to the cheek and throat. Compresses should not be unbearably hot. Scientists do not recommend falling asleep with hot compresses.

Refrig. Frozen ice is wrapped in a paper towel or light cloth and applied to the ear and surrounding area for 20 minutes. Scientists warn parents not to apply ice directly to children’s skin. It is widely believed that heat is more useful than cold for ear pain, however, in some cases, the alternate application of cold and hot compresses (20 minutes each) has the best effect.

Ear drops. OTC ear drops may relieve pressure in the ear caused by fluid or wax plugs. Scientists recommend using them for no longer than a few days, and if the symptom persists, consult a doctor.

OTC anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and discomfort.

Massage. Gentle massage is useful if the ear pain extends to the teeth or is caused by a headache associated with high blood pressure. Massage should be the muscles surrounding the ear, as well as the jaw or neck (depending on the location of the pain). Massage is also helpful for pain caused by an ear infection or fluid in the ear, experts said.

Garlic. Eating a clove of garlic a day helps prevent ear infections, scientists say. Garlic-based ear drops can reduce pain and prevent the infection from worsening. However, garlic cannot replace antibiotics, experts emphasized.

Bow. Scientists recommend heating the onion head in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, squeezing out the liquid from it and dripping a few drops into the ear in case of a pain symptom. After such a procedure, you should lie down for 10 minutes so that the drops get into the ear as deep as possible.

Lollipops. Sucking helps reduce pressure in the Eustachian tubes, researchers say. Infants with ear pain should be fed as often as possible, and adults should try lozenges or candy.

Breast milk. Some studies have shown that breast milk has antimicrobial properties and is beneficial for both children and adults. Scientists advise to instill a few drops of breast milk in each ear and, if necessary, repeat the procedure every few hours with a pain symptom.

Only a qualified doctor can identify the cause of ear pain and prescribe rational treatment.

Based on www.medicalnewstoday.com

What not to do if your ear hurts

What not to do if your ear hurts – Polyclinic news

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October 15, 2020

Ear pain is considered one of the most unpleasant and excruciating pains. It can completely disrupt night sleep and significantly worsen the quality of life.

The main causes of ear pain are infections and injuries (improper cleaning of the ear canal, various bumps and injuries can lead to an inflammatory process).

If the lesion is in the outer section, then you will feel itching in the auricle, pain (most often acute). As for the middle ear, here diseases can “come” from the nasopharynx. Most often, we experience shooting pain in the ear, a sensation of throbbing, hearing loss, a strong and unusual perception of our own voice. With damage to the inner ear, pain is extremely rare. Symptoms such as incoordination, nausea, noise are characteristic.

Sometimes excruciating pain can occur due to diseases in neighboring organs (dental disease, trigeminal neuralgia, inflammation in the throat, nose or paranasal sinuses, diseases of the esophagus, cardiovascular pathologies, etc.). In this case, the pain simply “gives” to the ears.

Causes of ear pain can be caused by both infections and injuries

Do’s and Don’ts for ear pain:

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• Warm up the ear. If the cause of the problem is not established (and it is very difficult to do it yourself), then you can seriously harm yourself. In the inflammatory process, the risk of spreading the lesion is high.
• Apply antibiotics. Antibacterial drops, at best, may be ineffective (with fungal otitis), at worst (in some pathologies they have a toxic effect on the nerve endings) – they can lead to deafness.

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If there is no purulent discharge from the ear cavity, and the body temperature remains normal, you can take an anesthetic drug. Vasoconstrictor drops in the nose will also help. They reduce internal pressure on the membrane and thereby significantly reduce pain.

The best thing, of course, is not to get sick! So be sure to take care of your ears. Always wear a hat in the winter, carefully clean your ears from wax and do not start the disease.