How can you relieve earache pain at home. What are the most effective natural remedies for ear infections. Which home treatments provide quick relief for earaches. When should you see a doctor for ear pain.

Understanding Earaches and Ear Infections

Earaches can be a source of significant discomfort, often resulting from ear infections. While medical intervention is sometimes necessary, many cases can be managed effectively at home. This article explores various home remedies and treatments for earaches, providing you with practical solutions to alleviate pain and promote healing.

Types of Ear Infections

There are primarily two types of ear infections that commonly cause earaches:

• Acute Otitis Media (AOM): An infection of the middle ear
• Otitis Media with Effusion (OME): Fluid buildup in the middle ear without significant symptoms

Understanding the type of ear infection you’re dealing with can help in choosing the most appropriate home remedy.

The “Watchful Waiting” Approach

In many cases, particularly with mild ear infections, doctors recommend a “watchful waiting” approach. This method allows the body’s immune system to fight off the infection naturally without immediate intervention with antibiotics.

Dr. Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, an expert from ENT and Allergy Associates in New York City, explains, “Often we don’t need to give antibiotics. Generally, ear, nose, and throat doctors will watch the infection for about three days. If the symptoms remain or worsen, then it may be time for antibiotics.”

This approach is particularly effective for OME, which tends to resolve on its own without antibiotic treatment.

6 Effective Home Remedies for Earaches

When seeking relief from earaches at home, several remedies have shown promise. Here are six options that may provide some relief:

1. Warm Compress

A warm compress can be a simple yet effective way to alleviate ear pain. Here’s how to use this method:

1. Soak a washcloth in warm water
2. Squeeze out excess water
3. Apply the warm cloth to the affected ear for about 20 minutes

Alternatively, you can use a warm water bottle. Dr. Chandrasekhar notes, “People do the warm compresses simply to try to soothe, to try to draw out the inflammation. It can make people feel a little bit better.”

2. Warm Olive Oil

While scientific evidence is limited, some people find relief by putting a few drops of warm (not hot) olive oil in the ear. Dr. Chandrasekhar advises, “It’s okay to try as long as the olive oil isn’t piping hot and there’s no hole in the eardrum. It may soothe or it may not soothe. If there’s no swollen eardrum, it may not cause any harm whatsoever.”

3. Herbal Extract Ear Drops

Certain herbal ear drops have shown promise in treating middle ear infections. A study found that drops containing a mixture of herbal extracts were as effective as prescription drops for children with middle ear infections. The herbal mixture included:

• Allium sativum (garlic)
• Verbascum thapsus (mullein)
• Calendula flores (marigold)
• Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort)
• Lavender
• Vitamin E in olive oil

4. Alcohol and Vinegar Solution

For those prone to swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), a homemade solution of equal parts rubbing alcohol and vinegar can be beneficial. Here’s how it works:

• The alcohol helps evaporate water trapped in the ear canal
• Vinegar prevents the spread of bacteria

Apply a couple of drops of this solution in the affected ear to help prevent recurrent infections.

5. Blow-Drying the Ear

Another effective method for preventing swimmer’s ear is using a blow-dryer. This technique is particularly useful for those who frequently get water trapped in their ears. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Set the blow-dryer to its lowest heat setting
2. Hold it near (not directly against) the ear
3. Gently blow air to help evaporate any remaining moisture

This method can be used after swimming, showering, or exposure to rain and wind.

6. Onion Juice

While it may sound unusual, onion juice has been a folk remedy for earaches dating back to the 1800s. Onions contain quercetin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties. Here are two methods to try:

1. Heated onion method:
   • Heat an onion at 450°F for 15 minutes
   • Allow it to cool, then cut in half
   • Squeeze the juice into a bowl
   • Apply a few drops of the juice into the ear
2. Direct application method:
   • Cut an onion in half
   • Place the cut side directly over the infected ear

Dr. Chandrasekhar advises, “It’s perfectly reasonable to try it, but give yourself a time limit. If it’s still bothering you in three days, go in to see a doctor.”

When to Seek Medical Attention

While home remedies can be effective for many earaches, it’s important to know when professional medical care is necessary. Consider seeing a doctor if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after 2-3 days of home treatment
• You experience severe pain or fever
• There’s discharge from the ear
• You notice hearing loss or dizziness
• The earache is in a child under 6 months old

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

The Role of Antibiotics in Treating Ear Infections

While antibiotics are sometimes necessary for treating ear infections, their use is becoming more selective. Dr. Chandrasekhar explains, “Overuse of antibiotics in society in general has caused this growth of bacteria that are now resistant to many types of antibiotics, so we’re trying to reel that back in by not overly prescribing.”

This cautious approach to antibiotic use underscores the importance of trying home remedies and allowing the body’s immune system to fight off mild infections naturally.

Prevention Strategies for Recurring Ear Infections

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to reduce the risk of recurring ear infections:

• Practice good hygiene, especially hand washing
• Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke
• Breastfeed infants when possible, as it boosts immunity
• Keep up to date with vaccinations
• Avoid swimming in polluted water
• Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing

Implementing these preventive measures can significantly reduce the frequency of ear infections and the need for treatment.

Understanding the Anatomy of the Ear

To better comprehend ear infections and earaches, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of ear anatomy. The ear is divided into three main parts:

1. Outer Ear: Includes the visible part (pinna) and the ear canal
2. Middle Ear: Contains the eardrum and small bones that transmit sound
3. Inner Ear: Houses the cochlea and structures responsible for balance

Ear infections most commonly affect the middle ear (as in acute otitis media) or the outer ear (as in swimmer’s ear). Understanding which part of the ear is affected can guide treatment choices and help in communicating with healthcare providers.

The Impact of Lifestyle on Ear Health

Various lifestyle factors can influence ear health and susceptibility to infections. Consider the following aspects:

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can boost overall immunity, potentially reducing the risk of ear infections. Foods high in vitamin C, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for ear health.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections, including those affecting the ears. Implementing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise can contribute to better overall health and potentially fewer ear issues.

Sleep Quality

Adequate, quality sleep is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. Poor sleep habits can make individuals more prone to infections, including those in the ear.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to pollutants, allergens, and irritants can increase the risk of ear infections. Maintaining clean air quality at home and workplace can help reduce this risk.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Ear Health

In addition to conventional treatments and home remedies, some people explore alternative and complementary therapies for ear health. While scientific evidence may be limited for some of these approaches, they are worth considering under the guidance of a healthcare professional:

Acupuncture

Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help relieve ear pain and improve overall ear health. It’s believed to work by stimulating certain points on the body that correspond to ear function.

Chiropractic Care

Some chiropractors claim that certain adjustments can help drain the ear and alleviate pressure, potentially reducing the frequency of ear infections. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.

Naturopathy

Naturopathic approaches often focus on boosting overall immunity and addressing underlying causes of recurrent ear infections. This may include dietary changes, herbal supplements, and lifestyle modifications.

Essential Oils

Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, are believed to have antimicrobial properties that may help with ear infections. However, it’s crucial to use these properly and under professional guidance, as direct application in the ear can be harmful.

While exploring these alternative therapies, it’s important to maintain open communication with your primary healthcare provider to ensure a comprehensive and safe approach to ear health.

Technology and Ear Health: Tools for Home Monitoring

Advancements in technology have introduced new tools for monitoring ear health at home. These can be particularly useful for those prone to frequent ear issues:

Smartphone Otoscopes

These devices attach to smartphones and allow users to capture images of the ear canal and eardrum. While they don’t replace professional medical examinations, they can be helpful for monitoring changes over time and sharing information with healthcare providers.

Tympanic Thermometers

These thermometers measure body temperature through the ear canal, providing quick and accurate readings. They can be useful for monitoring fever associated with ear infections.

Hearing Test Apps

Various smartphone apps offer basic hearing tests. While not as comprehensive as professional audiometry, these can help track hearing changes that might be associated with ear issues.

It’s important to note that while these tools can provide valuable information, they should not be used to diagnose or treat conditions without professional medical advice.

The Future of Ear Infection Treatment

Research in ear health and infection treatment continues to evolve. Some promising areas of development include:

Probiotics for Ear Health

Studies are exploring the potential of certain probiotic strains in preventing and treating ear infections. The idea is that beneficial bacteria might help maintain a healthy balance in the ear and respiratory tract.

Gene Therapy

Researchers are investigating gene therapy approaches to address genetic factors that might predispose individuals to chronic ear infections.

Nanotechnology

Advancements in nanotechnology may lead to more targeted and effective treatments for ear infections, potentially reducing the need for systemic antibiotics.

Immunotherapy

Work is being done to develop immunotherapies that could boost the body’s natural defenses against ear infections, particularly for those with recurrent issues.

While these areas show promise, it’s important to remember that research takes time, and it may be years before some of these approaches become widely available. In the meantime, the combination of judicious use of current treatments, home remedies, and preventive strategies remains the best approach for managing ear health.

As we continue to learn more about ear infections and develop new treatments, the emphasis on personalized care grows. What works best for one individual may not be ideal for another. This underscores the importance of working closely with healthcare providers to develop a tailored approach to ear health that considers individual medical history, lifestyle factors, and personal preferences.

By staying informed about both traditional and emerging treatments, individuals can play an active role in maintaining their ear health and managing infections effectively when they do occur. Remember, while home remedies can be very effective, they should always be used in conjunction with professional medical advice, especially for persistent or severe ear issues.

Ear Infection Home Remedies

Common Relief Options

The most natural treatment is no treatment at all, or the “watchful waiting” approach. (1)

Doctors may go this route for mild cases of middle ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, in an attempt to allow the immune system to fight off the infection on its own without the help of antibiotics.

“Often we don’t need to give antibiotics,” says Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, with ENT and Allergy Associates in New York City. Generally, she says ear, nose, and throat doctors will watch the infection for about three days. If the symptoms remain or worsen, then it may be time for antibiotics.

Otitis media with effusion (OME) in particular tends to go away without antibiotics or other treatments. These ear infections are the result of fluid buildup in the middle ear and usually have few symptoms. (1)

At-Home Remedies to Treat Ear Infections

Maybe you’re not a fan of pain relievers or antibiotics and want to limit your or your child’s exposure to them.

“Overuse of antibiotics in society in general has caused this growth of bacteria that are now resistant to many types of antibiotics, so we’re trying to reel that back in [by not overly prescribing],” Dr. Chandrasekhar says.

Given that, natural, at-home options may come in handy. At least 1 in 10 people with ear pain reports having tried one or more types of alternative medicine before visiting their doctor. (2)

Keep in mind, however, that research supporting these treatments is scarce, and it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying a new treatment.

Here are six at-home options that may provide some relief:

• A warm compress Hold a washcloth under warm water and squeeze it to release the extra water. Then, lay it over the ear that’s infected for 20 minutes or so to lessen the pain. A warm water bottle held over the infected ear should also do the trick. (3,4) “People do the warm compresses simply to try to soothe, to try to draw out the inflammation,” Chandrasekhar says, adding that she does believe it can make people feel a little bit better.
• Warm olive oil in the ear Chandrasekhar says there’s no proof this works but says it’s okay to try as long as the olive oil isn’t piping hot and there’s no hole in the eardrum. “It may soothe or it may not soothe,” she says. “If there’s no swollen eardrum, [olive oil] may not cause any harm whatsoever.”
• Herbal extract ear drops Drops containing allium sativum, verbascum thapsus, calendula flores, hypericum perforatum, lavender, and vitamin E in olive oil can help children suffering from a middle ear infection that requires active treatment (rather than simply waiting for the pain to diminish over time). One study found these drops to be just as effective as prescription drops. (2)
• A solution of equal parts rubbing alcohol and vinegar Applying a couple of drops of this solution in the infected ear could help people suffering from repeat infections of swimmer’s ear (medically called otitis externa), which occurs when water gets stuck in the ear canal and bacteria grow. The rubbing alcohol helps the water in the ear evaporate, and the vinegar prevents bacteria from spreading. (5)
• Blow-drying the ear This method can also help people who routinely suffer from swimmer’s ear (who aren’t always swimmers — simply being out on a windy and rainy day could cause the infection). Pointing a blow-dryer on low heat near the ear can help dry up any leftover moisture in the ear after being out in the elements, pool, or shower. (5)
• The juice of an onion Several articles and YouTube videos claim that onions are the secret to curing an earache, which is advice that supposedly dates back to the 1800s. Onions contain a flavonoid called quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. One method calls for heating an onion at 450 degrees F for 15 minutes. Then, once it is cool, cut the onion in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl. Put a few drops of the juice into the ear. Or, you could place the onion half directly over the infected ear. (6) Chandrasekhar says it’s “perfectly reasonable [to try it], but give yourself a time limit like, ‘Okay, if it’s still bothering me in three days I’m going to go in to see a doctor,’” she says.

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Earache? Here Are 5 Remedies You Can Do at Home

Is an earache keeping you awake at night, or is your little one pulling on their ear? We’ve all experienced an earache or ear infection at one time or another, and while they can be bothersome and unpleasant, there are things you can do at home to help ease the discomfort. Ear, nose and throat specialist Dr. Emily Burke shares five things you can do to treat mild earaches.

What causes an earache?

Common causes of ear pain can include ear wax impaction, otitis externa (more commonly known as an outer ear infection or “swimmer’s ear”), otitis media (which is a middle ear infection or infection behind the eardrum), eustachian tube dysfunction (a muffled or fullness in the ear), or temporomandibular joint inflammation (which is pain of the jaw joint and surrounding muscles).

There are also many causes of ear pain not caused by the ear itself, which may include salivary gland, tongue, tonsils, or laryngeal issues. You may need to see an ear, nose and throat specialist to determine if your ear is the source of the problem. If ear pain is accompanied by hearing loss, you should see your doctor right away.

Here are 5 things you can try at home:

Over-the-counter pain relievers

Pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help relieve pain and fever. These medications can be used by both kids and adults. It’s important to note that not all over-the-counter medications are safe for children, especially babies. Be sure that the appropriate dosage is given for their age. The Centers for Disease Control recommends following these guidelines:

• Children younger than 6 months: only give acetaminophen.
• Children 6 months or older: you can give acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Never give aspirin to children because it can cause Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome, although rare, is a very serious condition that can harm the liver and brain.

Ear drops

Over-the-counter ear drops can be helpful when used properly, but caution should be taken in patients who have a previous history of ear infections, ear tubes, or ear surgeries. If you or your child has an outer ear infection, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, using fluid-drying eardrops might help. Using fluid-drying eardrops is not appropriate for people who have ear tubes. They also shouldn’t be used if there is fluid coming from your ear or if your eardrum is ruptured. Before using eardrops for you or your child, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor to make sure they’re safe.

Warm compress

Heat can help in reducing pain or throbbing from an earache. Soak a washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess water and then hold it against your ear for up to 20 minutes. If this helps in easing the pain, you can reapply the compress throughout the day. You can also use a heating pad but do so on a low setting and always supervise a child who is using one. Hot compresses can also be alternated with cold compresses.

Hydrogen peroxide

Using hydrogen peroxide in your ears can help with an earache. Place a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your affected ear and let it sit for a few minutes. You will feel and hear a bubbling sensation within your ear. After a few minutes, tilt your head over a sink to let the peroxide drain. It’s important not to use too much hydrogen peroxide or repeat the procedure too frequently, as it can cause irritation or inflammation.

Rest

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

When should I see a doctor?

It is always best to seek the care of an ENT for ear-related issues, as they have the most expertise in evaluating the causes of ear pain and managing those issues. If you experience a fever of 102.2 or higher, pus or fluid draining from your ear, hearing loss or worsening symptoms, you should seek medical care as soon as possible.

You might not need to see a doctor for an earache if the discomfort is mild. If your earache does not require antibiotics, further treatment might not be necessary, and these home remedies can help with symptom relief. Never insert cotton swabs or other objects into your ear canal, as these can cause damage and can push infected fluid farther into your ear. If your ears are feeling wet, a hairdryer set on a cool setting is a good option for drying the ear. If you or your child has frequent ear infections or chronic earaches, usually four within a year, ask your doctor if ear tubes might be a good option.

To learn more about Dr. Emily Burke, or to make an appointment, click here.

Learn more about ear, nose and throat care at Ochsner.

Ear hurts: what to do at home for an adult, how to treat

Contents

• Causes of pain in the ears inside and out
• Pain inside the ear – the nature of the pain and its localization
• Ways to eliminate pain
• Treat the ear with folk means
• Use the following prescriptions to treat otitis:
• Antibacterials
• Which doctor treats ears
• Homeopathic remedies

Contents

Causes of pain in the ears inside and out

Otalgia, or in other words, pain in the ear, can occur as a result of causes that are sometimes not directly related to the ear itself. Inflammatory processes on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity (stomatitis), diseases of the teeth and gums (caries, pulpitis, gingivitis), infectious pathologies that develop in the throat and pharynx (pharyngitis, inflammation of the tonsils), inflammation of the maxillary sinuses can provoke pain.

Insects in the ear

Otalgia can be caused by an insect entering the ear canal. Depending on the size, the discomfort will be different in intensity. A mosquito, a fly or a small midge can fly into the ear. When an insect enters, a person experiences discomfort, itching, noise and pain. If the insect does not leave the ear canal after a short period of time, serious complications can occur, such as hearing problems, congestion, bouts of nausea and dizziness. If an insect bites, there is a risk of developing edema due to an allergic reaction.

Don’t panic. You need to act clearly and calmly. It is impossible to attempt to get a stuck insect with tweezers or other improvised tools. Otherwise, there is a risk of piercing the eardrum or pushing the insect deeper.

Otitis media

Inflammation can occur at any age. But most often otitis media is diagnosed in children aged 3 months to 3 years. This is due to the immaturity in the functional plan of the Eustachian tube. The cause of the development of inflammation are viruses or pathogenic bacterial microorganisms. In the absence of timely treatment, complications may develop. A bacterial infection from the middle ear area passes into adjacent parts, provoking the development of mastoiditis, petrositis or labyrinthitis. Complications such as inflammation of the meninges of the brain are even less commonly diagnosed. Even in the case of successful treatment with antimicrobials after meningitis, a person remains immunodeficient.

The occurrence of complications is characterized by an increase in body temperature, neurological signs, and confusion. With labyrinthitis, paresis of the facial nerve and dizziness may develop.

Other causes

Causes of discomfort may be diseases that are not directly related to ear damage. Factors provoking ear pain can be inflammatory processes in the sinuses, diseases of the oral cavity, teeth and gums (stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontitis), infectious lesions of the throat.

Pain inside the ear – the nature of the pain and its localization

Ear pain is not accidentally considered one of the most terrible sensations. The symptoms that appear are so painful that they do not allow a person to be distracted by something else. Even the strongest painkillers are often unable to stop it. The pronounced severity of pain in this area is not accidental – the auditory canal is permeated with a huge number of nerve fibers associated with other organs located in the head, and, directly, with the brain.

Important! When there is severe pain in the inner part of the ear, it is necessary to seek qualified medical help, and not try to stop it yourself. Moreover, consultation with an otolaryngologist is necessary for any intensity of pain, since it is directly dependent on the cause that provoked the appearance of a pathological phenomenon.

Pain as a symptom of otitis

Severe pain, fever, discharge from the ear canal – all these signs indicate the presence of inflammatory processes in any part of the hearing organ.

Main ear pathologies:

1. Otitis externa – develops when the hearing organs are damaged by staphylococci, proteas, fungi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the cause of the disease can be frequent and improper cleaning of the ears. The disease is accompanied by the appearance of boils, the pain increases during chewing, when exposed (pressed) on the auricle, hearing deteriorates, tinnitus occurs, the ear canal swells and turns red. Sometimes the temperature rises, discharge appears.
2. Otitis media – the disease is often diagnosed in children, due to the anatomical features of the structure of the auditory tube, pathogenic microorganisms from the nasopharynx penetrate into the hearing organs. In newborns, frequent regurgitation can provoke the development of pathology, when milk enters the auditory tube and leads to impaired drainage functions. Characteristic features of the disease are acute, shooting pain in the ear, which can radiate to the teeth, temporal region, eye sockets and superciliary arches, pus discharge, temperature of 38 ° C and above.
3. Internal otitis – the disease is accompanied by hearing loss, pain, dizziness, vomiting, it is difficult for a person to maintain balance, the gait becomes unsteady, an obsessive ringing in the ears appears.
4. Often the ear aches, congestion appears, pain of an impulsive nature with excessive release of earwax.

See also: Why does it click in the ear?

If the inflammatory process is localized inside the ear, caused by a bacterial infection, there is a high probability of hearing loss, often even after recovery there are problems with coordination of movement.

Inflammatory processes in nearby organs

Often unpleasant sensations in the hearing organs occur with inflammation of the organs that are in close proximity to the ear, with injuries, tumors.

Why the ear can hurt:

1. Mastoiditis is an inflammatory process of the mastoid process of the skull, which is located behind the auricle, the pathology develops against the background of purulent otitis media. The disease is accompanied by fever to subfebrile values, weakness, migraine, insomnia. Intense pain occurs more often on one side, is localized behind the ear, radiates to the parietal region, upper jaw, and a strong pulsation is felt in the temporal part.
2. Lymphadenitis – inflammation of the lymph node, which is located behind the ear. This disease develops as a complication of dental and ENT diseases.
3. Abscess behind the ear – purulent formation may be located under the periosteum or subcutaneously. Removal is possible only by surgical intervention.
4. Mumps – inflammation of the salivary gland, the pain is localized under the ear.
5. Giant cell arteritis is a rheumatic disease in which pathological changes occur in the ear artery. The disease is often diagnosed in older women.

On the other hand, a doctor is not always available right away. Therefore, every person should be guided in the question of what remedies for ear pain are applicable at the onset of the disease.

The first thing to do in case of acute pain in the ear is to give the person an anesthetic inside

It would seem that what could be more natural? But very often people forget about this, they run to the pharmacy in the middle of the night for ear drops instead of taking a paracetamol or ibuprofen pill and having a quiet time before visiting the doctor. Ibuprofen is preferable to paracetamol because it has an anti-inflammatory effect and the analgesic effect is more pronounced.

Ear pain and runny nose – vasoconstrictors

If the pain is accompanied by a runny nose, it will be useful to put drops with a vasoconstrictive effect in the nose to improve ventilation of the tympanic cavity through the auditory tube.

But with ear drops, the situation is not simple

Different drops are designed for different clinical situations. Some can be instilled if there is a hole in the eardrum, others cannot, etc. The percentage of incorrect self-administration of ear drops by patients approaches 50%.

Therefore, it is worth instilling drops on your own only with full confidence in the diagnosis. For example, the appearance of acute pain in the ear in a child against the background of a runny nose, if the child did not swim the day before in a pond, almost completely indicates acute otitis media. You can drip drops with an analgesic effect, such as Otipax, Otizol, Otinum.

Do not put drops in the ear when injured. It is better to take pain medication and see a doctor as soon as possible.

For acute ear pain in the first two to three hours, topical application of dry heat may be effective

In the future, it is not advisable to warm the ear without medical advice. Thermal procedures cannot be carried out in the phase of purulent inflammation of the ear, which can sometimes develop quite quickly.

Ways to eliminate pain

What should I do if an adult’s ear hurts? After all, this problem often occurs suddenly and requires prompt assistance, which should minimize unpleasant symptoms.

We treat ear pain with folk remedies

Folk remedies will help you quickly and easily get rid of ear pain at home. For the treatment of simple pain in the ear, folk remedies can be used. It is likely that you have one or more of these easily available home remedies.

How can you help yourself and your loved ones if your ears suddenly hurt? An old effective remedy for treating otitis media with folk remedies is camphor oil, which needs to be slightly warmed up and dripped into the sore ear 1 drop each.

For the treatment of pain in the ear caused by inflammation with folk remedies, the following recipe will be most effective: pharmacy, although only 10 percent is on sale and will have a less pronounced impact. To 100 milliliters of tincture, add forty grams of refined sunflower oil. Soak a small gauze swab in this mixture and insert it into the affected ear for a day. The course of treatment is 5-12 days.

Treatment of pain in the ear (otitis media) with boric acid

Before starting treatment, the sore ear is cleaned with 3% hydrogen peroxide, which should free the sink from sulfur, in the future this will favor the effective effect of boric acid. The head is placed on a pillow, with the affected ear up, five drops of peroxide are dripped into the ear, then the head is tilted to the other side and the ear is wiped with a cotton swab. Boric acid is an excellent antiseptic for the treatment of otitis externa (acute and chronic) without damaging the eardrum. In acute and chronic otitis media, 3-5 drops of boric acid are applied to the turunda and injected into the external auditory canal 2-3 times a day. The course of treatment should not exceed 3-5 days.

See also: Consequences of ear diseases: the child does not hear well after otitis

Then they put the pillow back on the head, drip three drops of boric acid into the ear canal and wait ten minutes. After that, the head is sharply tilted in the opposite direction, and then all moisture is carefully removed from the auricle with a cotton pad.

This procedure should be repeated about four times a day. We must remember to insert an insulating cotton swab or gauze turunda into the ear after each instillation.

Turundas with boric acid can be left overnight. Turundas are gauze tourniquets, which in our case are moistened with boric acid and gently inserted overnight into the sore ear. The course of treatment is not more than 5 days.

Bread compress for earache.

An old recipe for the treatment of ears in children. Literally after 10-15 minutes the pain subsides. You need to take a black crust (in the whole loaf) from bread, put it in a colander over a pot of water (water bath), warm it up on both sides. Then apply to the sore ear (like a compress: cellophane, cotton wool and tie with a handkerchief). It is advisable to hold for at least an hour. If a vodka compress “cools down” after 1.5 hours, then a bread compress keeps heat for more than 3 hours and warms up perfectly. And if you do 2-3 days in a row, then the pain will go away for a long time.

Folk remedy for purulent otitis.

Boil an egg into a “pouch”, take out the yolk, take a yellowish liquid from its middle with a pipette and put 2 drops into the ear, tie it with a handkerchief and go to bed. After waking up, it will be much easier. Then take a thin plate of onion , put a leaf of a golden mustache and a little bit of butter on it, roll it up with a flagellum and insert it into your ear. Keep the medicine for 3 hours. Warm up your feet in the evening: add 1 tablespoon of mustard and 2 tablespoons of salt to 5 liters of hot water. Mix everything and warm the legs with this composition until the water cools down. Put on warm socks and lie down under the covers. At night, put a few drops of mummy infusion into the ear: 1 tablet of mummy should be dissolved in 1 tablespoon of vodka and 2-3 drops should be injected into the ear. This tool cleans well from purulent fluid. And in the peeled onion, cut a small hole on top, add a little granulated sugar there and put in the oven until the onion softens. The resulting bitter-sweet liquid (juice) is instilled in 2-3 drops. 7 days to be treated, and the disease will pass.

Otitis can be cured quite quickly with the use of folk remedies:

When treating otitis, use the following recipes:

a) Cut a hole in a large onion, pour 1 tsp of cumin into it. Close the hole with cotton wool and bake the onion in the oven. Drip the resulting juice into the ears 2-3 drops – for a child, 5-7 drops – for an adult (depending on the severity of the disease) 2-3 times a day.

b) Apply bags with boiled water flowers of elderberry, chamomile or centaury to the ears.

c) Instill 2 drops into the affected ear for a child, and 7-10 drops of juice from fresh basil leaves (2-3 times a day) for an adult. If you do not have fresh basil at hand, you can buy it at a pharmacy the oil of this plant. This oil is an excellent pain reliever, you should definitely have it in your first-aid kit. It will help not only with earache, but also with arthritis, sciatica. It is enough to rub the oil into the sore spot, and after a few minutes you will feel relief.

Ear instillations are performed only in the first stage of otitis media. Sometimes it happens that such procedures are enough to extinguish inflammation and avoid the formation of pus. General requirement: any drops should be warm, approximately 37 degrees Celsius

Black root cures otitis media.

A plant called black root can be used to treat otitis media. Cut 200 g of dry roots and put in a liter bottle or jar. Pour vodka to the top, insist 10 days. for pain in the ear: rub behind the ear more often Do not bury in the ear, you will burn it.

Compresses with kombucha treat otitis media.

Compresses with a 10-12-day infusion of kombucha help with ear pain: moisten gauze, apply it to the parotid area (in front of and behind the ear), cover with polyethylene, cotton wool, wrap with a woolen scarf or scarf. Keep such a compress for 8-9 hours. You can apply a compress with tea vinegar, that is, a 30-day infusion of kombucha. Such a compress is put in the same way as the previous one, and you can keep it all night.

Propolis will remove backache in the ears.

If during a cold starts to shoot in the ear , then it is advisable not to delay, but immediately start treatment. In this case, propolis on alcohol is useful (dissolve 5 g of propolis in 100 ml of alcohol). A flagellum is made from a bandage, dipped in alcohol and inserted into the ear. Lie with that ear up and take a nap. In most cases, everything goes right away.

See also: Why does the auricle hurt?

At the first signs of lumbago in the ears there is another similar recipe: You need to buy or prepare yourself a 40% propolis tincture so that it is always in the home first aid kit. Mix 1 part of propolis tincture with 4 parts of vegetable (sunflower or olive oil), shake until a light brown emulsion with a pleasant smell is obtained. Before use, shake, wet two gauze tubes and insert them into the ears for an hour. In total, 10-12 procedures every other day.This very effective treatment is also suitable for the prevention of hearing loss.

Antibacterials

Which ear pain pills will work? Discomfort in the ears is due to the presence of inflammation in the tissues. To stop purulent processes, experts recommend the use of antibacterial drugs. However, it should be noted that they will be effective only if it is the bacteria that have become the causative agents of infection and the development of pathology.

Antimicrobial therapy should not be interrupted without specialist advice. In the event of a relapse, the prescribed medications will be ineffective, which will be associated with the development of stable immunity to the components of the remedy by the bacteria.

Only an otolaryngologist can select the appropriate drug after a special analysis of the microflora. In advanced cases, inflammatory processes can be stopped with broad-spectrum medicines. What is the most effective medicine for earache in an adult?

• Amoxicillin is a semi-synthetic antibacterial agent that has a pronounced bactericidal effect. Destroys gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Acid-resistant components of the drug are rapidly absorbed into the intestine and block the synthesis of cell walls of microbes;
• Augmentin is a bacteriolytic drug that helps eliminate most anaerobic and aerobic pathogens. The antibiotic is active against bacteria producing beta-lactamase;
• Ceftriaxone is an antibacterial medicine for the ears that has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is administered intramuscularly, which ensures the rapid elimination of anaerobic and aerobic microbes in the affected tissues;
• Ampicillin is a broad-spectrum drug that can be used to treat mixed infections. Promotes the destruction of most gram-positive bacteria, such as Proteus, Klebsiella, influenza bacillus, etc.;
• “Cefuroxime” is a semi-synthetic antibiotic that is resistant to b-lactamases of microbes. It inhibits the development of pathogens in the foci of inflammation for 2-3 days.

Lymphadenitis (enlarged parotid lymph nodes) is often the result of the development of the bacterial flora in the ear cavity. If this symptom occurs, you need to seek help from an otolaryngologist.

Antibacterials for ear treatment in adults are given only in courses of 7-12 days. The systematic use of drugs helps to eliminate catarrhal and purulent processes in the organ of hearing as early as 3-4 days of therapy. However, experts warn that with the improvement of well-being and the disappearance of local manifestations of the pathology, it is impossible to stop taking antibiotics.

Which doctor treats the ears

An otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic and infectious abnormalities in the head: ear, throat and nose. As a rule, specialists have knowledge in neurology, virology, human structure, and pharmacology. With the manifestation of diseases of the hearing organs and upper respiratory tract, it is necessary to seek help from an otolaryngologist.

Once you figure out what to do for earache, it’s easy to provide first aid. The main thing to remember is that if there are no positive results during the first 2-3 days after the onset of pain and the start of self-treatment, in this case it is necessary to consult a doctor for help.

Homeopathic remedies

How to treat ear pain? Antibacterial drugs are used to treat ear pathologies only in advanced cases. This group of medicines not only creates an additional burden on the detoxification organs, but also leads to dysbacteriosis. At the initial stages of the development of inflammatory processes in the auditory analyzer, homeopathic remedies can be used.

Highly diluted preparations, which contain a negligible amount of disease-causing agents, contribute to the development of specific immunity. How to treat ears? You can eliminate the main cause of pain with the help of the following drugs:

• “Aconite” – eliminates hyperthermia, shooting pains and nasal congestion;
• “Hamomilla” – relieves swelling, which contributes to the evacuation of fluid from the ear cavity and, accordingly, the elimination of stuffy ears;
• “Mercurius” – eliminates the manifestations of chronic inflammation, accompanied by the release of purulent exudate;
• “Gepar Sulfur” – anesthetizes and stops catarrhal processes in the mucous epithelium;
• “Verbaskum” – eliminates itching, scaly plaque in the external auditory canal and pain in the ear cavity.

Before treating ear pain with the above medicines, a specialist should be consulted. As a rule, drug therapy involves the use of several groups of drugs at once. This helps to eliminate both the clinical manifestations of the disease and the causative agents of inflammation in the organ of hearing.

Sources

• https://bolit.net/bol-v-uhe/154-bolit-uho-vnutri.html
• http://lor-24.ru/uxo/kak-i-chem-ustranit-bol-vnutri-uxa.html
• https://healthperfect.ru/bol-v-uxe-prichiny-lechenie-kapli-narodnye-sredstva-v-domashnix-usloviyax.html

Ear treatment. How to treat ears at home?

Diagnosis of the cause of ear pain

Sometimes additional diagnostics are needed.

How to treat ears?

After making a diagnosis, the doctor must prescribe a series of procedures and medicines that must be drunk for recovery. Complex treatment in most cases consists in taking antibiotics, antibacterial drugs, as well as in the use of drops or special ointments. Often, unpleasant symptoms disappear 5-6 days after the patient began to treat the ears. However, the reduction or absence of pain does not always signal a complete recovery. Most often, this indicates the beginning of the healing process. In addition, the composition of many drugs includes substances that relieve swelling and inflammation, painkillers.

In difficult cases or when the disease has already passed into a severe stage of development, ear treatment may be accompanied by hospitalization of the patient. This is due to the need for complex procedures that cannot be implemented at home, and the implementation of additional examinations. A patient may be recommended a hospital if the disease is accompanied by an increase in body temperature above 38.8 degrees or the presence of other symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

After the ear treatment is completed, the patient needs to undergo a second examination at the ENT. This specialist should confirm that the recovery process is completed and you can stop taking the drugs. Everyone who has suffered severe ear diseases is advised to dress warmly and wear hats in strong winds and cold to prevent relapses in the future.

Ear treatment at home?

If you experience discomfort or pain in your ears, contact a medical facility immediately where you can receive the necessary assistance. You should not treat the ear at home, because this can lead to irreversible consequences, for example, to meningitis, complete deafness or mastoiditis. Although there is a huge list of drugs online today that will help you get rid of pain, they can be ineffective or cause complications.

Ear treatment at home can also provoke allergic reactions or the development of pathologies in other organs. Experts note that today clinics are often visited by patients who have self-medicated. The consequences are in many cases disappointing. Often people relieve only unpleasant symptoms, but the causes remain, which contributes to the progression of pathologies. Therefore, before consulting a doctor, if you need to reduce pain or fever, you can only take a tablet of painkiller or antipyretic.

Folk remedies for ears

Folk remedies will never replace normal complex therapy. They are not a treatment for the ears at home, but only help prevent the development of pathologies. The various manipulations recommended by alternative medicine should be treated with the utmost caution. For example, remember that only a qualified doctor can wash a sulfur plug, but trying to get rid of it on your own is extremely dangerous.

After undergoing treatment, they are allowed to carry out simple procedures that will serve as the prevention of ear diseases. 2 times a month, you can instill a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide and vaseline oil, 5 drops each. After that, it is recommended to clean the auricle with a cotton swab. To prevent damage, do not use matches or other items wrapped in cotton. Make sure the cotton swab is absolutely sterile.

Inhalation is used as an effective method, which cannot be used to cure the ear at home, but sharp pain can be relieved. To do this, use various essential oils, for example, lavender or coniferous. The main thing is to do this with caution, because warming up in many cases contributes to an increase in inflammatory processes. It is worth knowing that inhalation cannot be done at elevated temperatures or in the presence of discharge from the ears.

Otitis externa caused by a boil can be treated with steam baths. They are implemented within no more than three minutes and help reduce pain. You can use this method only after the breakthrough of the boil itself.

Boost your immunity

Ear treatment at home, even with the most popular folk methods, does not lead to complete recovery. “Grandma’s remedies” are best used to increase immunity. Thus, it is worth adding fruits and vegetables to the diet, containing a large amount of vitamins and minerals. The following products will be useful:

• Radish;
• Beets;
• Greens;
• Citrus.