People may think that earaches are just a minor nuisance, but they can cause debilitating pain. While waiting for medical care or for antibiotics to work, some home remedies can help.
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can temporarily reduce the pain of an earache. People experiencing ear pain can try: ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin
It is important to remember that it is not safe to give aspirin to babies and young children. This is because of the risk of a potentially life-threatening condition called Reye’s syndrome.
2. Heat
Heat from an electric heating pad or hot pack can reduce inflammation and pain in the ear.
3. Cold
A cold pack can help with the pain of an earache.
The cold should not hurt, and parents should never apply ice directly to their children’s skin.
4. Ear drops
Over-the-counter eardrops can reduce pressure in the ear caused by fluid and earwax.
5. Massage
Gentle massage can help with ear pain that radiates from the jaw or teeth, or that causes a tension headache.
6. Garlic
Eating a clove of garlic a day may help prevent ear infections.
To prevent ear infections, try eating a clove of garlic each day.
7. Onions
Like garlic, onions can help fight infection and reduce pain. Also like garlic, onions are not a substitute for medical attention.
8. Sucking
Sucking can help reduce pressure in the Eustachian tubes, offering some relief.
Babies who are nursing may feel better when allowed and encouraged to nurse as frequently as possible. Adults and children can suck on hard candy or cough drops.
9. Breast milk
Breast milk has antimicrobial properties. Some research suggests that a mother’s breast milk changes based on the microbes to which a baby is exposed.
