An ear ache is commonly attributed to an ear infection, but there are several other potential sources of pain, including blocked earwax, debris or persistent noise exposure. Home treatments for an ear ache can be effective, but when the pain is persistent, or is accompanied by hearing loss or discharge, a medical evaluation should be obtained. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that an ear infection can be treated at home under the advice of a medical professional.
Step 1
Examine the ear for any visible debris, wax or foreign object.
Step 2
Avoid placing anything--including a cotton swab--into the ear canal. When cleaning the ear or removing wax, the cotton swab should only be used on the outer ear. It can also be used to withdraw visible wax resting at the ear canal entrance.
Step 3
Prepare a warm compress by wetting a wash cloth with warm water or filling a hot water bottle with warm water.
Step 4
Place the compress over the ear for 15 to 20 minutes while resting on the opposite side. Switch sides if both ears are painful. The compress can soothe pain or help soften blocked earwax. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests using a cool wash cloth on the ear as well as it may relieve pain. Alternating hot and cold compresses throughout the day may also improve the pain.
Step 5
Make a homemade ear drop solution out of olive oil or vegetable oil. Warm a bottle of oil in a glass of warm water for 15 minutes. Using a dropper, suction a small amount of the warm oil, test the temperature on the inner wrist and then place 2 to 3 drops in the affected ear. Cold drops should not be placed in the ear as it can cause pain from shock. For added effect, replace the warm compress over the ear after inserting the drops. The oil and heat can soften wax and encourage it to come out of the ear canal in addition to soothing ear pain. Repeat this method two to three times throughout the day.
Tips and Warnings
- Over-the-counter analgesic drops can also be purchased to numb the pain in the ear. Try an over-the-counter oral pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, to numb the ear ache.
- Don't use drops or insert anything into the ear if liquid, pus or blood is oozing from the ear. This is a sign of a ruptured eardrum that should be treated by a health care professional. Don't attempt any home treatments on an infant or child without consulting a health care provider first.
Things You'll Need
- Wash cloth
- Hot water bottle
- Water
- Cotton swabs
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Glass
- Dropper
