Earaches can be caused by a variety of factors such as ear infections, fluid in the ear, swimmers ear, ear wax that is stuck, an object that was put in the ear and gets stuck, an injury to the ear canal, a tooth problem, like a cavity or teething, or a sore throat. Here are some home remedies that can help ease ear pain:
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Pain relievers: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can often relieve the pain of an earache.
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Warm or cold compress: A warm or cold compress can help reduce ear pain. Soak a washcloth in either warm or cold water, wring it out, and then put it over the ear thats bothering you. Try both temperatures to see if one helps you more than the other.
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Chew gum: If you’re on an airplane or driving at high altitudes and your ear pain is from the change in air pressure, chewing gum can help lower that pressure and ease your symptoms.
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Elevate the affected ear: 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.
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Saltwater gargle: Saltwater is known as an effective way to reduce inflammation. Add one teaspoon salt to one cup of warm water and gargle it for a couple of minutes. If your ear infection is related to a swollen throat, this can help reduce your symptoms.
Its important to note that if your ear pain persists for more than two or three days or gets worse, you should talk to your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you notice fluid (such as pus or blood) oozing out of your ear, swelling and redness or a deeper skin tone around the ear or behind it, or your child has trouble taking liquids or is vomiting, you should call the doctor.
