Outer ear pain is often caused by an ear infection due to fluid buildup in the ear. Allergies, frequent swimming and an overabundance of ear wax can lead to painful ear infections. While ear infections are common in children, adults sometimes experience ear pain as a result of another condition, such as a jaw problem or sore throat. See your doctor if you experience ear pain to determine the cause and an appropriate treatment plan.
Cold or Warm Compresses
The Medline Plus website suggests applying cold packs to your ear to relieve outer ear pain. You can also hold a cold, wet washcloth against the infected ear to ease discomfort. The Kids Health website recommends placing a warm wash cloth or heating pad against your ear to relieve earache pain. Try using a warm washcloth and a cold wash cloth to see which method feels better to you.
Olive Oil
According to the Medline Plus website, you can treat mild ear pain at home using olive oil. Just put one or two drops of olive oil into the affected ear. Note that you should not put olive oil in your ear if you think your eardrum might be ruptured. If your pain is severe, see a doctor to ensure that your eardrum is intact before putting anything in your ear.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can help relieve built-up pressure that leads to outer ear pain. This home remedy can be especially helpful for children suffering from mild ear infections. If your child has outer ear pain, give him some gum to chew to see if it helps relieve some of his discomfort.
Pain Relievers
Take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce outer ear pain while you are waiting to see a doctor or waiting for your ear infection medication to start working. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can provide relief from ear pain in the short term.
Prevent Pain
If you have an ear infection, you can take a few steps to reduce your outer ear pain while you are waiting for your antibiotics to clear up the infection. Keep water out of your ear by avoiding swimming and being careful during baths. MayoClinic.com states that you can place a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly in your ear to help keep water out while bathing. Avoid putting anything in your ear during treatment, including ear plugs and hearing aids.
