Ear pain is a very common symptom, which can occur without any apparent cause or infection, and is often caused by prolonged exposure to cold or pressure inside the ear during a cold, for example.
So although it is not necessary to do specific treatment with antibiotics or any kind of remedy, there are some natural remedies that can be done at home to relieve discomfort. Whether in children or adults, ear pain tends to worsen at night and worsens with the onset of sinusitis or allergies.
However, if the pain takes more than 2 or 3 days to relieve, it is advised to consult the general practitioner to see if there is any infection that needs to be treated. See the main causes of ear pain.
1. Warm compress
A simple warm compress provides sufficient warmth to increase circulation in the ear and therefore helps to decongest the ear. To use this simple technique, a warm clean cloth should be placed over the ear for 5 to 10 minutes, avoiding that it is very hot and burns the skin.
This is a great way to relieve ear pain in children as it does not cause any discomfort.
2. Gingerbread
Ginger is a root that has incredible anti-inflammatory and analgesic powers that allow you to relieve various types of pain, including ear pain.
To use ginger, you should cut a toothpick about 2 cm from the root of a ginger, make small cuts on the side and insert inside the ear for about 10 minutes.
3. Chamomile steam inhalation
Chamomile has a strong relaxing and decongestant effect that facilitates removal of secretions from the nose and ear, reducing pressure and relieving pain. In addition, the steam helps to moisturize the channels that connect the nose to the ear, reducing the irritation that may be causing the pain.
To do this inhalation one should put a few drops of essential oil of chamomile in a bowl or pan with boiling water and then placing a towel over the head inhale the steam. It is also possible to use two handfuls of the dried plant or some eucalyptus leaves.
4. Chewing gum
Chewing a chewing gum is one of the easiest and simplest ways to relieve ear pain. This is because the chewing motion helps to massage the muscles around the ear, opening the Eustachian tubes. These tubas are small channels that connect the ear to the throat and that allow to remove the secretions that accumulate in the ear, relieving the pain.
5. Garlic oil
In addition to antibiotic, garlic is also a potent analgesic that can be used to relieve various types of pain in the body, including the ear. However, the habit of putting on hot oil or any other solution, which is not indicated by an otolaryngologist, should not be done as it may make the pain worse or cause burns.
To use your analgesic powers you should knead a clove of garlic and place it in a small container with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. The vessel is then brought to the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes. Finally, it is necessary to strain the mixture and apply 2 to 3 drops in the ear that is aching.
When to go to the doctor
In most cases, ear pain is not a serious symptom and can be relieved at home, but it is important to see a doctor if:
- The pain does not improve after 2 or 3 days;
- Other symptoms develop such as fever, severe headache or dizziness;
- Difficulty opening mouth.
In these cases an ear infection may be developing and it is important to start the appropriate treatment with antibiotics, like Amoxicillin, for example.
