Ear infections are one of the most common illnesses a child experiences early in life, states the Mayo Clinic. Adults are still susceptible to ear infections, but rarely does this include the middle ear. Antibiotics are not the first line of treatment for all ear infections unless they infect a very young infant, are caused by a more serious bacteria or the individual has other health complications. Home treatment can be effective in easing the discomfort of the ear infection until it subsides. An infection of the ear is often caused by bacteria, but it can also be the result of a virus. Symptoms include pain, redness, temporary hearing reduction and sometimes a fever or ear drainage.
Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
The Mayo Clinic lists over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers as a method of home remedy for the pain associated with an ear infection. Young children, especially those under the age of 1, should be give pain relievers only under the advice of a medical professional. Effective pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
Ear Drops
An over-the-counter ear drop solution can be administered directly to the ear to relieve the pain. These drops can be warmed by placing the bottle into a glass of warm water for several minutes before application. When these drops are not available, a dropper can be used to apply warm olive oil, tea tree oil or sesame oil into the ear to soothe the pain. Herbal remedies, including anesthetic drops, should only be used in children under the advice of a medical professional, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. No individual should use ear drops if it is suspected the eardrum has ruptured. This can be confirmed by a medical professional, who can then suggest proper ear drops for pain relief.
Warm Compress
Placing a warm wash cloth or water bottle over the affected ear can be helpful in reducing pain. This method can be repeated as often as necessary throughout the day or evening. Application can be most effective when the individual is resting in a position that takes the pressure off the ear drum, such as lying on the opposite side of the affected ear or upright. The compress should be applied for at least 15 minutes at a time.
