An earache can be a serious situation for a child, requiring a trip to the doctor and prescription medicines, according to the CDC. But while antibiotics may kill the infection, they won't relieve the pain. Not all earaches are caused by an infection; some may be caused by changing altitude, like in an airplane, or by buildup of earwax. Swimming can bring on a condition known as swimmer's ear, which can bring about pain and pressure in the ear. Bug bites or other injuries may cause ear pain as well.
Step 1
Soak a washcloth in warm--not hot--water and put it in a plastic bag to avoid messiness. Hold the compress to the child's ear, as suggested by MayoClinic.com. Reheat the washcloth as necessary. To prevent burns, do not put the washcloth in the microwave or boiling water.
Step 2
Apply a cold washcloth to the child's affected ear, according to MedlinePlus. Cold has a numbing affect and can even help decrease inflammation caused by irritation or infection. Putting the washcloth inside a plastic bag will prevent wetting of the hair, clothing and bedding.
Step 3
Place a heating pad on a pillow and have the child rest his head on the pillow. A soft cloth may be used next to the child's face if the material covering the heating pad is too coarse. A heating pad is tidier than wet washcloths, and the heat is more consistent and controllable without danger of burning the skin.
Step 4
Give your child a piece of gum. If the ear discomfort is caused by changing altitude, chewing a piece of gum may alleviate the pain. Swallowing may also provide relief by clearing tubes in the ears that may have become clogged while rising or descending in an airplane.
Step 5
Remove earwax. Earwax buildup can cause pressure and pain. There are several over-the-counter remedies that soften earwax so it can be easily removed, but you can use a couple of drops of hydrogen peroxide mixed with water. Place a drop or two of the solution into the affected ear.
Tips and Warnings
- Direct the child to change position. Ear pressure may be worse when the child lies flat or on the affected side. Give your child an extra pillow to find out if elevating the head relieves the pain. Placing a few drops of olive oil into the affected ear may also offer some pain relief.
- If your child develops a high fever or other symptoms not normally associated with an earache - -- like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or a severe headache -- seek medical attention immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Heating pad
- Eyedropper
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Gum
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