How to Get Rid of a Bad Ear Ache

An ear ache or otalgia, is a very common medical problem for both adults and children worldwide. This disorder is usually due to an outer or inner ear infection. It can also be caused by mastoiditis, an infection of the skull's mastoid bone which is located behind the outer ear. Conversely, ear aches may also occur from infections and disorders of the nerves surrounding the ear, which may have originated from dental conditions, jaw disorder or throat disorders. If left untreated, ear aches can cause severe discomfort and even deafness. By employing all the remedies below, you can effectively get rid of an ear ache.

Things You'll Need

• Garlic oil
• Hot pack

Instructions

1. Swallow some water or food. Swallowing can relieve your ear ache by removing the pressure which normally builds up behind the ear drum. The pressure is usually caused by a bacterial ear infection or a change in weather. Chewing gum or pretending to chew can give you the same effect.

2. Place 2-3 drops of garlic oil to the affected ear three times daily. Leave the drops in your ear for about 30 minutes. Flush your ear out completely with warm water afterwards. Allicin is the potent active ingredient of garlic. It acts as a natural antibiotic which can destroy any bacteria infecting your ear and causing ear aches. You can purchase garlic oil at your local health food store.

3. Relieve your ear ache by applying a hot pack to it. The heat from the hot pack will dilate the blood vessels in your ear, reducing the pain. Cover the hot pack with a clean cloth prior to applying it to the affected ear. Lie down on your side and apply the pack on the ear for about 20 minutes. Wait three hours before reapplying. Do this three times daily.

4. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. This medication is effective in relieving the pain and reducing fever associated with an ear infection. Always read the recommendation on the package to determine the dosage.

5. Talk to your physician if your ear ache persists or worsens. If your ear ache is accompanied by a high fever and is intense, seeing a doctor is a must. Intense pain with fever can be an infection of the middle ear, which requires antibiotic therapy. If left untreated, pus may form in the ear and cause deafness.

Tips & Warnings

• You must consult your physician before embarking on self treatments for ear aches.

References

• "Medical Diagnosis and Treatment," Stephen J. McPhee, MD, Publisher: McGraw-Hill 2006
• "The Book of Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants as Medicines," Matthew Wood, Publisher: North Atlantic Books, Sep 15, 1997
• Ear Pain and Discomfort

Resources

• Taking Care of Your Ears