Inner ear infection, also called middle ear infection or otitis media, is a common ailment in childhood. It is possible for adults to develop an ear infection but it isn't as likely. The infection is often a result of fluid building up in the Eustachain tube, the pipe that drains fluids out of the ear, which allows bacteria and germs to multiply, states MedlinePlus. Treatment typically consists of pain management and sometimes antibiotics for persistent or moderate infections.
Home Pain Relief
Various tactics can be attempted at home to diminish pain, the most significant symptom of an inner ear infection. Such methods should only be attempted on children under the advice of a health care professional. Most children should be examined early in the ear infection to rule out a severe infection and monitor for a ruptured eardrum. Potential pain relief methods include applying a warm cloth or water bottle to the ear, suggests MedlinePlus. An over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can reduce ear pain temporarily. Ear drops, including over-the-counter anesthetic drops, may be effective for relieving ear pain. Various oils, including olive or grape seed, warmed to body temperature and dropped into the ears may also help relief pain.
Antibiotics
Many ear infections are caused by a bacteria and can be treated with an antibiotic such as amoxicillin, states MedlinePlus. Immediately prescribing a drug is no longer the first step in treating an ear infection. This overuse of antibiotics has led health care professionals to adopt a new approach that includes waiting at least three days to see if the infection clears on its own, states MayoClinic.com. Persistent ear infections will likely need to be treated with an antibiotic.
Medical Intervention
Persistent or frequent ear infections in children may require medical intervention. A common surgical procedure is the insertion of ear tubes to help drain fluids from the inner ear. These tubes keep a small hole open in the eardrum to allow fluids to escape even if the Eustachian tube becomes blocked or swollen.
When the adenoids, small masses of tissues found in the airways between the nose and throat, swell, they may block the draining of the Eustachian tube. Persistent infections and other respiratory ailments can cause this swelling. MedlinePlus says surgery may be performed to remove the enlarged adenoids, which will improve ear infections.
