Earaches may occur in one or both ears and may be the result of several underlying causes. Earaches may present with either a dull ache or sudden, sharp, throbbing pains. Treating ear pain with home remedies is a first line of defense. If caught early, most earaches resolve quickly; however, a visit to a health care practitioner is called for if the pain lingers for more than 24 hours.
Decongestants and Allergy Medicines
Sometimes ear pain is the result of an allergic reaction causing congestion. Fluid fills the sinuses and ear canals, causing inflammation and pain. Take an over-the-counter decongestant or combination allergy medication/decongestant for quick relief of the pain and pressure.
Sweet Oil
Sweet oil or pharmaceutical-grade olive oil is an old-time folk remedy for earaches and infections. Place a few drops of warm sweet oil in the painful ear followed by a small cotton ball plug to soothe the pain quickly. Additionally, impart the healing properties of garlic by soaking two cloves in the oil for at least a day ahead of time. Store the sweet oil in the refrigerator and warm before using. There is much scientific evidence for the uses of garlic as a medicinal agent.
Chewing Gum
Ear pain that starts during or after an airplane trip or on a climbing expedition is often the result of in imbalance of pressure in the eustachian tubes. Chewing gum or other chewy items such as salt-water taffy or a caramel helps return the internal pressure in the ears to normal.
Hold Your Nose and Blow
Pinching the nostrils shut is another home remedy to relieve ear pain resulting from exposure to high altitudes. Suggested by the American Academy of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, the sufferer should, "...take a mouthful of air and then, using your cheek and throat muscles, force the air into the back of your nose as if you were trying to blow your fingers off the end of your nose. A pop will tell you when you have equalized the pressure inside and outside your ear." Blow gently to avoid damaging the eardrums.
Hot Compresses
Apply a hot compress to the outer ear to soothe earaches, suggests the Mayo Clinic. This is another old-time, home remedy to relieve pain in the ears. Dip a soft cloth in a mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar. Make the water as hot as you can tolerate. Wring out the cloth and place the compress against the ear until it begins to cool. Repeat until ear pain is relieved.
