An earache can affect one or both ears. Pain can be temporary or constant depending on the cause. MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health, describes an earache as a sharp, dull or burning pain. It can be due to an infection or the presence of an irritant, such as wax or dirt. Treatment of an earache consists of removing the irritant or just relieving the pain. In some cases, an antibiotic may be prescribed for infection.
Compress
A cold or hot compress can be effective to minimize ear pain. An ice pack wrapped in a cloth or a cloth warmed with hot water can be placed over the ear for 20 minutes at a time as often as necessary.
Jaw Movements
Sometimes an earache is the result of pressure changes, such as descending in an airplane. This is described as ear "popping." Chewing gum and yawning may relieve some of the pressure that causes this type of earache.
Eardrops
Several types of eardrops can help alleviate pain as well as soften wax to help it move out of the ear. MedlinePlus suggests placing drops of olive oil or an over-the-counter anesthetic ear solution into the ear for temporary pain relief. If the ear is oozing liquid or blood, do not use eardrops. Other herbs or ingredients may be recommended by a trained professional. GrannyMed.com suggests mixing five drops of lavender oil with a teaspoon of olive oil in a warm pan. Use a cotton ball to soak up a bit of the solution and then rub it on the outer ear.
Oral Pain Medicines
Oral pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be taken as directed to provide pain relief. Children should not be given aspirin, warns MedlinePlus.
Stay Upright
Both adults and children will notice an increase in pain in the ear when lying down. Reclining at an incline or sitting up can take the pressure off the eardrum from fluids that are trapped due to infection.
