A large number of us know the agony and inconvenience related to ear pain, and this can happen when there is contamination or swelling in the ear. While ear infections are significantly more common in youngsters, grown-ups can also be negatively affected by this painful condition. The pain and discomfort in the ear can range from dull and aching, to undergoing feelings of sharp, puncturing pain. While this condition is relatively common, various ailments can trigger this condition. They include tonsillitis, sinus infections, cavities, impacted earwax, teeth grinding, and acute otitis media (AOM).
Before you consider antibiotics or home remedies, it is important that you consult first with your doctor. In the event that home cures are the recommended course of action, take a look at some of the ways you can naturally counteract and treat ear pain.
• If the pain is too much, reach for an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Just remember to only reach for an Advil or a Tylenol, never aspirin.
• To help soothe the pain, apply a wet, warm towel to your ear. You could also use a heating pad, but exercise extreme caution with this method by keeping the heating pad on the lowest setting and wrapping it in a blanket or towel.
• Try to keep your head up as much as possible, and try to prevent yourself from reclining back. By keeping your head up you can help minimize the pain, so if you need to lie down make sure you keep your head propped up with cushions.
• Chewing, yawning and swallowing can all help open up the Eustachian tube and help give you some relief. Drinking plenty of liquids, eating a healthy snack, or even chewing on a piece of gum can help fluid drain from the middle ear.
• To help relieve pain, place 2-3 drops of hydrogen peroxide into the ear and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes. Then, turn your head to the side to let the excess fluid drain out. Just make sure to catch it with a towel or napkin!
• Another natural pain relieving method is to put 2 to 3 drops of room-temperature olive oil into the ear. Follow the same procedure as above.
Keep in mind that home cures are not a replacement for medical advice. If you find that your symptoms do not improve or get worse, consult with your doctor.