Ear infections of different types are the most common reason of ear pain. When the ear becomes infected, the build-up of inflammation and pressure can cause severe pain. Only a certified doctor can diagnose an ear infection. You should not take antibiotics without a prescription or think that these symptoms are caused by an ear infection.
Ear pain is not always caused just by an ear infection. Some other health conditions can also cause ear pain such as:
- Referred pain: This can be caused by infection or inflammation elsewhere in the body. Take for example, a toothache can cause ear pain.
- Chronic disease
- Skin infections: When they are in or around the ear.
- Allergic reactions: These can come from many things, such as soap, shampoo, earrings, etc.
- Water: Sometimes water can also cause pain if trapped in the ear.
- Pressure: Changes in altitude can affect the pressure in the ear. This usually gets better on its own, with a popping sensation.
Home Remedies for Earache
If ear pain is not severe, or you are waiting for treatment to take effect, the you can try these home remedies for pain relief:
1 . Heat Pad
The warmth of a heating pad or heat pack can reduce inflammation and pain in the ear. Place the heat pad on the ear for about 20 minutes. For best results, you should also touch the neck and throat with the heat pad.
2. Ice Pack
An ice pack can help relieve ear pain. Wrap ice cubes or freezer packs in paper towels and cover with a thin cloth. Place it on the ear and the area under the ear for about 20 minutes. Make sure the cold shouldn’t hurt the area more, and parents shouldn’t apply ice directly to their child’s skin.
3. Ear drops
Ear drops can reduce ear pressure caused by fluid and earwax. You should read the directions mentioned in the ear drop carefully and consult a doctor before giving ear drops to children.
Ear drops are not a replacement for prescription medicines or antibiotics, so you should only use them for a few days. If symptoms persist, you should see a doctor.
4. Massage
A gentle massage can help relieve earaches that emerge from the jaw or teeth, or those that cause tension headaches. You can massage sensitive areas as well as any surrounding muscles. For example, if the area behind the ear is painful, try massaging the muscles in your jaw and neck.
5. Garlic
Garlic has been used since a long time in folk medicine to relieve pain. Some studies suggest that garlic has antibacterial properties that fight infection. You should not use it as a substitute for antibiotics recommended by doctors. Instead, consider adding garlic to your antibiotic course to speed up the healing process.
6. Onion
Just like garlic, onions can help fight infection and reduce pain but onions are also not a substitute for medical care. Heat the onion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Then filter the liquid and put a few drops on the ear using an earbud or a piece of cotton. You can lie down for 10 minutes and let the fluid drain from the ear. Repeat this process as per your requirement.
