An ear infection needs prompt attention from a doctor, who usually will prescribe oral antibiotics and antibiotic ear drops to stop the infection. Often, other therapeutic treatments can occur at home to ease the symptoms of an ear infection. Ear infections generally require some type of pain medication, MayoClinic.com indicates.
Pain Relief
Using over-the-counter pain relievers will help decrease the pain experienced from the ear infection. For example, the common analgesic acetaminophen can help, as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
Warm Packs
An ear infection can cause discomfort and pain. Moist warm packs applied to the infected ear will decrease the discomfort. Alternating with a cold temperature will provide a type of analgesic relief, numbing the area for a time.
Ear Drops
The doctor can prescribe ear drops that directly relieve pain in the ear, MedlinePlus indicates. He will give direction on how to place the ear drops in the ear corrrectly. The ear drops will help the pain to decrease in the ear. A friend or significant other may need to help with the administration of the ear drops.
Diversion of Pain
Using diversion of pain as a tool will help a person's concentration off the pain he feels, MayoClinic.com indicates. Low key activity such as watching television may him feel better and ease his pain. Looking at an old scrapbook also may make him feel a little relaxed. Dimming the lights and resting in bed will help. The person needs to rest with this type of unpleasant and painful infection.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum will help decrease the pressure felt in the ear. Chewing gum helps to decrease the pain felt during an ear infection, MedlinePlus reports.
Pillows
You should use plenty of pillows to elevate the head during an ear infection. This will decrease the pain in the ear. Pressure in the ear decreases when the head becomes elevated, MedlinePlus reports.
