Home remedies for ear infections include over-the-counter pain medication, cold compresses, hydrogen peroxide, and ear drops.
Always consult a healthcare provider before self-treating an ear infection.
If symptoms of an ear infection get worse or new symptoms develop, contact a healthcare provider.
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Some ear infections in adults and children only get better with prescription antibiotics.
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1.
Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relieverslike Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) can help treatear infectionpain.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
For children aged 6 months or older, you may give either acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Warm and Cool Compresses
Warm and cool compresses can help relieve ear pain.
Some healthcare providers recommend switching between a warm compress and a cool compress.
A warm compress can be as simple as a clean washcloth soaked in warm water.
Wring the water out of the cloth before applying it to the ear.
To avoid burns, check that the cloth is warm, not hot.
Keep the Head Elevated
Propping your head up while you sleep may help reduce ear pain.
If you are a side sleeper, avoid laying on your infected ear.
The pressure may cause additional pain.
In addition, having the ear exposed allows air to flow and keeps it dry, which supports healing.
Use a Humidifier
Some healthcare providers recommend a cool air humidifier to help relieve congestion in the ear.
you could also use the steam from a shower for the same purpose.
Stay Hydrated
check that to drink plenty of fluids while you are recovering.
This helps thin mucus and promote drainage in the ears, which can relieve pressure and pain.
Place two drops in each ear.
Do not use hydrogen peroxide drops if you have a perforated eardrum or ear tubes.
However, whether herbal or naturopathic ear drops are effective is unclear.
These drops can be found over-the-counter in drug stores or online.
This practice can help promote healing, decrease mouth pathogens, and benefit dental and gum health.
How to Make a Saltwater Solution
To be effective, the saltwater gargle must contain enough salt.
Combine 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with 1 cup of warm water and stir to dissolve.
Perform the following steps for a saltwater gargle:
9.
One exercise involves sitting up straight and keeping both feet flat.
Rotate your neck to one shoulder, and then move it to the other shoulder.
you’re able to also raise your shoulders as high as possible and count to five.
Repeat throughout the day.
Some natural remedies for ear infections have little evidence to support them.
Before trying any alternative remedies, consult your healthcare provider.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
11.
Ginger
Ginger is a root commonly used as a spice in foods.
It is considered to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ginger has been used for generations as an herbal remedy and appears to have multiple health benefits.
In recent years, ginger has been found to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Some people claim that applying ginger juice or ginger-infused oil around the outer ear can relieve pain and inflammation.
There is no evidence that it is effective, however.
Never put ginger inside the ear.
Adding these to your diet can support natural healing and help you fight infection.
Do not put garlic, or any foreign objects, into your ear.
Freshly crushed raw garlic may act as an antimicrobial because it contains a molecule calledallicin.
But more research, particularly on humans, is needed.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oilis an essential oil derived from the Australian tea tree.
There is no evidence that it is effective at treating an ear infection or relieving pain and other symptoms.
You should not press the cotton into the ear.
Never take tea tree oil orally; doing so can cause serious side effects.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is touted as a treatment for a wide range of ailments.
Studies do show that it may have antimicrobial properties, which would mean it could help with infections.
Many people do claim to have found relief from the folk remedy.
Using apple cider vinegar mixed with equal parts water should not cause any harm.
you could try about five drops per ear.
Can You Treat Swimmer’s Ear on Your Own?
Otitis externa, commonly known asswimmers ear, is an infection of theouter ear canal.
Others, like olive oil or garlic, are unproven and may potentially be harmful in certain circumstances.
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