An earache in babies can be due to an infection or a trapped object in the ear canal, such as wax or water. Most earache treatments can be administered at home. If an infant has a high fever or an earache that persists beyond a few days, medical treatment is necessary to examine for infection. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or may find something lodged inside the ear that must be removed.
Oral Pain Relievers
Oral pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are appropriate to treat ear pain, according to DrGreene.com. But caregivers should never give aspirin to a child without the advice of a medical professional. Very young infants should only be given an OTC pain medicine under the advice of a medical professional, as even baby formulations do not have dosing sizes listed. A doctor can advise a caregiver of the appropriate amount and frequency.
Ear Drops
Anesthetics in the form of ear drops are available over-the-counter or with a doctor's prescription for an infant. Caregivers can administer the drops into the ear as long as oozing is not present. If the ear is draining fluids or blood, it may be a sign of a ruptured eardrum. In this case, inserting anything into the ear can cause further complications. DrGreene.com points out that in a suspected ear infection, these drops may be the first line of treatment for 48 hours before antibiotics are considered. Antibiotics kill off a bacteria that is causing the infection, but they do not remedy an infant's discomfort.
Warm Compress
MayoClinic.com suggests applying a warm compress to an infant's ear when pain seems to be present. A compress can be made by wetting a wash cloth with hot water, allowing it to cool slightly and then placing it over the affected ear. A hot water bottle can also be used to administer warmth.
Natural Drops
Caregivers should check with a medical professional before using oil drops for an infant. These drops may provide temporary pain relief. Some common oils used include olive, grape seed and castor. A few drops of warm breast milk may also alleviate pain and help kill off bacteria. Like pain drops, these should not be administered if the infant's ear is oozing any liquids. To warm oil before using, caregivers should place the vial in a glass of warm water and test it on the wrist before placing it into the baby's ear.
