Earache

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Earache: Home Care & Treatment

A vaporizer can help by adding moisture and humidity to keep the mucous thin.

Over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide partial pain relief for adults with an earache.

A cold pack or cold wet wash cloth applied to the outer ear for 20 minutes may reduce pain.

Opening the Eustachian tube can help. Antihistamines, decongestants, or nose drops decrease the amount of nasal secretion and shrink the mucous membranes. Use these products for only a few days; if symptoms last longer than this you should consult your health care provider.

Severe pain may require analgesic eardrops, which can be prescribed by your health care provider. If these cannot be obtained, 2 or 3 drops of olive oil or another plain cooking oil may be used as long as there is NO ear discharge, NO ear tubes or other hole in the eardrum.

Ear pain caused by rapidly descending from high altitudes can be relieved by swallowing, chewing gum, or other methods. Allowing infants to suck on a bottle during descent can help.

Pediatric home care:

• Give the child pain-relieving tablet or liquid (acetaminophen or ibuprofen). Follow the dosage recommended on the package label.
• Avoid cigarette smoke near the child (possible increased risk of infection).
• Your child's doctor can prescribe analgesic eardrops for pain. If these cannot be obtained, 2 or 3 drops of warm (not hot) olive oil or another plain cooking oil may be used as long as there is NO ear discharge, NO ear tubes or other hole in the eardrum. Do not use oil more than two nights.
  
• Apply a cold pack or cold wet wash cloth to the outer ear for 20 minutes to reduce discomfort.
• If the child is uncomfortable lying down, resting in an upright position may help reduce pressure in the middle ear.
• Avoid the use of aspirin in teenagers or children who might have the flu or chicken pox because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, which is a serious problem of the brain and liver.