Having an uncomfortable feeling in your ear can distract you all day. Combined with a sore throat, muffled hearing, and a fever, ear infections can occur suddenly and disrupt your plans. Luckily, most ear infections can clear up without needing a visit to the doctor. There are home remedies you can try in the comfort of your home to address your ear infection quickly.
At-Home Medication
While ear infections are more likely to occur in toddlers and children, adults can also get them occasionally.Causes for adult ear infections may vary from seasonal allergies to upper respiratory infections.
Meanwhile, babies and toddlers often get ear infections due to an underdeveloped immune system. They also have a smaller middle ear, resulting in fluid build-up in the ear. Most of the time, these infections are short-term, but managing their symptoms can be challenging.
Here are some remedies you can try at home to ease the pain from your ear infection:
Over-The-Counter Fever and Pain Relievers
These can be taken as ear drops or by mouth. They are available in pharmacies and can also be found in a well-stocked medicine kit at home.
Avoid using numbing drops as their effect is brief and may cause more pain in the long run. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease fever. Taking the right dosage will ensure you or your child feel more comfortable.
Hot Or Cold Compress
Using a heat or ice compress over the affected ear can help reduce pain. Make sure to wrap a clean towel around it and not press the pad directly on your ear.
You can also alternately use warm and cold compresses every few minutes for relief.
Neck Exercises
Physical activity can ease the pressure built in the ear canal. You can try slow head rotations and gentle upward shoulder movements and repeat these movements every few hours.
Rest And Distraction
Ear infections can be painful and bothersome, especially if you are experiencing other symptoms at the same time.
Getting enough rest and doing activities to take your mind off of the pain can be beneficial.
Change In Sleep Position
Rest with your affected ear elevated than the rest of your body. You can achieve this by using one or two more pillows when you sleep.
You should also sleep on the alternate side of your affected ear. The less pressure you put on your ear, the less pain you’ll experience.
When To See A Doctor
For children, treating ear infections with unnecessary antibiotics can make their immune systems more resistant to the medication. This will make treating future infections more difficult.
However, if your child is experiencing recurrent ear infections, they will benefit from your healthcare provider’s expertise.They can determine the right plan of action based on your child’s diagnosis.
Ear infections in adults can cause long-term problems when left untreated. If your infection does not improve within 48 to 72 hours, you should contact your doctor. You may need to undergo additional tests to get a clearer diagnosis and treatment plan.
What should you do if you experience high fever, severe pain behind the ear, and paralysis in the face? Your ear infection needs to be seen by a doctor immediately.If your child has blood or pus-like discharge from the ears, you should also take them to their healthcare provider.
Ear Infection Treatment Near You In Austin, Texas
While most ear infections benefit from little to no treatment, there are cases when you need professional help. Having a trusted ear, eye, and nose (ENT) doctor to call on can be handy during those times. Do you need ear infection treatment near you? You can trust Georgetown ENT.
We provide comprehensive adult and pediatric ear, nose, and throat medical services for patients from Williamson County. Our top-notch and latest services include allergy testing and treatment and ear services, like earwax buildup and recurring ear infections. Our compassionate and patient-centered care is backed by state-of-the-art clinics ready to serve you.
If you want to schedule a consultation or have questions about our services, contact our friendly staff at (512) 869-0604. You can also submit an online appointment request form to book a visit with the best ENT doctor in Georgetown. We look forward to helping you get back on your feet.
