Ear infections can be really uncomfortable, both for kids and adults. They usually happen because of bacterial or viral infections, often linked to allergies, colds, or respiratory issues. This happens when fluid and mucus build up in the ear tubes and lead to an infection.
Kids tend to get ear infections more often than adults, mostly because their ear tubes are shorter. In fact, most kids will have at least one ear infection before they turn 3.
Here are the common symptoms of an ear infection:
- – Pain inside the ear
- – Fever
- – Hearing problems
- – Trouble sleeping
- – Feeling off balance
- – Fluid coming out of the ear
- – Sore throat
Now, let’s dive into some effective home remedies and treatments for ear infections.
Here are some simple home remedies to help ease the pain of an ear infection:
1. Hot or Cold Packs
Applying either a warm or cold pack can help reduce ear pain. Hold a warm cloth or cold compress against the ear for 10 to 15 minutes.
You can also switch between warm and cold packs, which can be especially soothing for kids. You can use a heating pad or ice pack for this.
2. Neck Stretches
Doing neck stretches can relieve the pressure in your ear caused by the infection. Here’s how to do it:
- – Sit or stand up straight.
- – Turn your head to the right so it’s in line with your right shoulder. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
- – Repeat on the left side.
- – Shrug your shoulders up towards your ears. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
- – Do these stretches several times a day.
3. Mullein Oil
Mullein oil, made from the flowers of the mullein plant, can help ease ear pain. You can find mullein oil at health food stores either on its own or as an ingredient in herbal ear drops.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D might not seem directly linked to ear infections, but it does boost the immune system. A stronger immune system is less likely to succumb to ear infections.
According to a 2017 study in Acta Paediatrica, increasing vitamin D levels in the body through diet, supplements, or sunlight exposure could potentially reduce the risk of ear infections.
5. Garlic Oil
Garlic oil has antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, making it a useful remedy for ear infections. You can apply garlic oil ear drops directly into the ear canal to help combat bacteria or viruses causing the infection.
Alternatively, you can make your own garlic oil ear drops by soaking crushed garlic cloves in warm olive oil.
6. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve tension in the muscles around the ear, which may facilitate the drainage of trapped fluid.
A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics suggested that chiropractic care could alleviate ear infection symptoms in young children.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can help keep your ears clean and prevent dirt and bacteria from getting into the middle ear, which is especially useful for preventing swimmer’s ear.
To use, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the outer ear canal, being careful not to let too much get inside the ear.
8. Ginger
Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. You can use ginger juice or ginger-infused oil on the outer part of the ear canal. However, make sure not to put it directly into the ear.
9. Naturopathic Ear Drops
These ear drops contain various herbs or essential oils like garlic, ginger, tea tree oil, or mullein, which can help treat ear infections. You can find natural ear drops at health food stores or supplement shops.
10. Changing Sleeping Positions
If you usually sleep on your side, try sleeping with the ear that’s bothering you facing upwards instead of pressing into the pillow.
This can help reduce discomfort, especially for children who might not think to do this on their own.
11. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties due to its acetic acid content, which can help treat ear infections. To use this remedy, mix equal parts of warm water and apple cider vinegar.
You can apply a few drops of this solution into the affected ear using a dropper bottle. Alternatively, soak a cotton ball in the solution, place it on the outer ear, and let it seep into the affected area.
12. Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be beneficial for earaches and ear infections. According to Sarah Emily Sajdak, a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture can help release muscle tension, improve blood and lymph flow to reduce inflammation, and target specific points to help clear the infection.
13. Facial Gua Sha
Facial gua sha is a massage technique using a jade stone or rose quartz that can help relax muscles and improve circulation. Sajdak suggests that this technique can release tension in the jaw and neck muscles, which can often hinder healing by restricting blood and lymph flow.
14. Saltwater Gargle
If your ear infection is associated with a sore throat, gargling with salt water can help ease pain and reduce inflammation. Sometimes, ear infections can occur when the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, gets blocked.
This tube usually drains fluid from the middle ear, but blockage can lead to fluid buildup and infection. Remember not to put salt directly into your ear.
15. Olive Oil
While there isn’t a lot of research on olive oil’s effectiveness for treating ear infections, it’s known to help reduce ear pain. Olive oil has soothing properties and can also soften earwax, making it easier to remove.
16. Distraction
Dealing with an ear infection can be really uncomfortable. One way to manage the discomfort is by keeping yourself distracted. Research suggests that staying busy and distracted can help reduce pain.
You can try watching a movie, playing a game, going for a walk, or chatting with a friend to take your mind off the pain.
17. Onions
Onions have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for ear infections. To use onions for ear pain relief, cook an onion, let it cool down, and then cut it in half.
You can either squeeze a few drops of the onion juice into your ear or simply hold the onion half against your ear. Many people find this to be a quick and effective way to ease ear pain.
18. Breast Milk
Breast milk contains antibodies that can help fight infections. Breastfeeding has been linked to lower rates of ear infections in babies and children.
However, it’s not recommended to put breast milk directly into the ear as it could increase bacterial growth.
19. Basil
Basil has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, making it a natural remedy for ear infections. One study even showed promising results in treating ear infections caused by common bacteria.
To use, crush a few basil leaves, strain the juice, and add one to two drops into the affected ear.
20. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help with ear infections. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a tablespoon of olive oil, warm it slightly, and then add a few drops into the affected ear.
After three minutes, tilt your head to let the oil drain out. However, be cautious as tea tree oil’s effects on the ear are not well-studied. While diluted tea tree oil is generally safe, watch for any worsening symptoms, increased pain, or hearing loss. If these occur, seek medical attention.
When to See a Doctor for an Earache
While home remedies can often help with earaches, sometimes medical attention is necessary. Here’s when to see a doctor:
- – Severe earache
- – High fever
- – Hearing loss
- – Ear discharge
- – Symptoms lasting longer than two to three days
- – Symptoms getting worse
If you experience any of these, it’s best to see a healthcare provider, who might refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. In some cases, chronic ear infections may require surgery to insert tubes in the eardrum to help prevent further infections and drain fluid.
Untreated ear infections can lead to complications like spreading of
the infection or permanent hearing loss and balance problems. Always
monitor your symptoms, and if they don’t improve or get worse after a
few days, seek medical care.
