To stop an earache fast, you can try several effective home remedies and over- the-counter treatments:
- Use pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation. Follow dosing instructions and consult a doctor for children’s dosages
- Apply warm or cold compresses to the affected ear. A warm compress can relax muscles and improve fluid drainage, while a cold compress can numb pain and reduce inflammation. Alternating between warm and cold every 10-30 minutes can be beneficial
- Try olive oil drops. Warm a few drops of olive oil (not hotter than body temperature) and place them in the ear to soothe pain and soften earwax. Avoid if you suspect a ruptured eardrum
- Use hydrogen peroxide drops if earwax buildup is the cause. Put a few drops in the ear, let it bubble for a minute, then drain and rinse. Avoid if you have a perforated eardrum or infection
- Apply ginger juice around the outer ear (not inside the ear canal) due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce pain
- Eat garlic or use garlic oil as it has antibacterial and pain-relieving properties, but consult a doctor first since it may interfere with antibiotics
- Sleep with your head elevated or on the unaffected side to help ear drainage and reduce pressure
- Chewing gum can help if the earache is due to pressure changes, such as during flights
If these remedies do not relieve the pain within a couple of days or if the earache is severe, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics if an infection is present
. In summary, fast relief often involves painkillers, warm or cold compresses, and safe home remedies like olive oil or hydrogen peroxide drops, combined with proper rest and head elevation
