Ear pain can be quite unsettling and uncomfortable for anyone, whether it’s occasional or chronic. Earaches can be a result of many things, such as fluid buildup, wax buildup, ear infection, or injury.
In addition to seeking medical attention, there are certain DIY remedies that can help alleviate the pain.
1. Warm Compress
Placing a warm compress on the ear can help relieve ear pain. Simply dip a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess water, and place it on the affected ear for about 10-15 minutes. Repeat several times a day as needed.
2. Garlic Oil
Garlic oil can help alleviate ear pain caused by an ear infection. Garlic contains antimicrobial properties that can help fight the bacteria causing the infection.
You can either buy garlic oil or make your own by adding a few garlic cloves to olive oil and warming it slightly. Then, strain the garlic and place a few drops of the oil in the infected ear. Repeat this process several times throughout the day.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide
If the ear pain is caused by wax buildup in the ear, hydrogen peroxide can help alleviate the pressure and pain. Mix an equal amount of hydrogen peroxide and water, and place a few drops in the affected ear.
Keep your head tilted for a few minutes before draining the solution out of your ear. Repeat this a few times throughout the day.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent natural remedy for ear pain caused by ear infection. The acidic nature of vinegar can help to fight against the bacteria causing the infection, and also to remove any excess wax in the ear.
Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and place a few drops of the mixture in the infected ear. Leave it for a few minutes and then tilt your head to allow the solution to drain out. Repeat this a few times throughout the day.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties which make it an effective remedy for ear pain caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.
Mix one or two drops of tea tree oil with one tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil and warm it slightly. Then, using a dropper, place the oil mixture into the affected ear. Leave it for a few minutes before tilting your head to let the oil drain out of your ear.
6. Chewing Gum
Chewing gum is a simple remedy that can help to alleviate ear pain. If the ear pain is caused by the change in pressure in the ear, chewing gum can help to equalize the pressure between the inner and outer ear.
Simply chew gum for a few minutes until the pain subsides.
7. Avoiding Allergens
For some people, ear pain may be the result of an allergic reaction. Allergens such as dust, pollen, or pet dander can cause inflammation in the ears, resulting in pain and discomfort. Avoiding these allergens can help alleviate the pain.
If it is impossible to avoid allergens, over-the-counter allergy medications can help to reduce the symptoms.
8. Essential Oils
Essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce ear pain.
Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil and then place a few drops in the affected ear. Leave it for a few minutes before tilting your head to let the oil drain out of your ear.
9. Onion Juice
Onion juice is a traditional home remedy that can help to alleviate ear pain. Onion contains compounds that help to reduce inflammation and fight against the bacteria causing the infection.
Cut a small onion and microwave it for 30 seconds to warm it up before squeezing the onion to extract the juice. Using a dropper, place a few drops of the onion juice in the affected ear and leave it for a few minutes before tilting your head to let the juice drain out.
10. Warm Oil Massage
A warm oil massage around the ears and neck can help to alleviate ear pain. Use warm olive or coconut oil to massage your neck and around the ears. This will help to increase blood flow to the area, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
When to See a Doctor?
Although most ear pain cases are not a cause of concern, there are times when you must see a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention:.
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Severe or persistent pain
- Blood or pus draining from the ear canal
- Trapped object in the ear canal
- Loss of hearing
- Dizziness or balance problems
Conclusion.
Ear pain can be quite unpleasant and uncomfortable for anyone, but it can be managed with the help of some DIY remedies.
These remedies can help to alleviate pain and reduce the inflammation, but it is important to seek medical attention if the symptoms persist or worsen. If the pain is severe, accompanied by fever or other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.