Ear pain is commonly caused by pressure, infection or fluid buildup in the ear. Eustachian tubes are small tubes connecting the ears to the nose. When Eustachian tubes block, it causes increased ear pressure and subsequent ear pain. Although ear pain is seldom the consequence of serious medical conditions, it needs to be medically evaluated to prevent the risk of severe infection and hearing loss.
Antibiotics
Ear pain related to fluid build-up is usually caused by an infection. Although home remedies can be effective in treating symptoms, they will not resolve the infection. The physician will prescribe antibiotics when the infection is deemed bacterial, however, antibiotics are not effective in treating viral infections of the ear. When the infection has cleared, resultant ear pain will subside. In addition, the entire course of antibiotics needs to be completed, because failure to do so might result in a recurrence of infection and symptoms. Common antibiotics for ear infections can produce side effects, so the patient needs to discuss ways to reduce them to stay compliant with his treatment regimen.
Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver is an exercise that is effective in reducing pressure in the Eustachian tubes. As the Eustachian tubes clear, pain and stuffiness is relieved. This technique is performed by taking a deep through the nose with the mouth closed. Next, the nose is gently blown, while firmly pinching it shut. This procedure can harm the eardrum if the nose is blown too hard; if an ear infection is present, the Valsalva maneuver should be avoided. In addition, individuals who have predisposing medical conditions should not attempt this maneuver without clearance from their physician.
Chewing Gum
Ear pain is often the result of increased pressure that can be caused by changes in air pressure. This is often experienced upon descent and landing in an aircraft. Gum chewing activates muscles that send air deep into the ears, and when these muscles are activated, the ears unblock. After a pop is heard in the ears, pain and pressure usually subsides.
Warm Compress
Warm compresses are effective ear pain reducers and can be applied any time throughout the day. A warm compress is made by soaking a clean soft cloth and squeezing out the excess water. The compress can be firmly applied against the painful ear anytime. The cloth needs to be changed when it cools or becomes soiled with drainage. Reusing a soiled compress will re-introduce bacteria into the ear, possibly worsening pain and promoting infection.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Alcohol
A 50-percent solution of hydrogen peroxide mixed with 50-percent rubbing alcohol can relieve ear pain by reducing bacterial counts. The mixture can be placed in a small cap and then, with the head tilted to one side, gently poured into the affected ear until a bubbling sensation is felt. When bubbling stops, the head is turned to allow the solution to drain into a receptacle. This procedure can be repeated as deemed necessary, says Homeremedyworld.com. In addition to killing bacteria, the solution warms the ear, relieving pain.
