Ear pain can be caused by a number of reasons, depending on how serious the pain is and whether other symptoms are also present. For example, ear pain with a fever might indicate an infection or a ruptured eardrum. Pain on the jaw or tooth can indicate that the problem is in your mouth, rather than the ear itself. If you try a few home remedies and the pain doesn't get better, talk to your doctor to rule out more serious problems.
Step 1
Try decongestant medicine if you feel pressure in your ear or if it feels like you have fluids inside. According to FamilyDoctor.com, an informational website provided by the American Academy of Family Physicians, this might indicate a blocked eustachian tube, a common problem when you have a cold or the flu.
Step 2
Get an antibiotic prescription if your ear is swollen or you feel pain, as this might indicate an infection. Until the antibiotics kick in, FamilyDoctor.com recommends putting a warm pad or towel against your ear to soothe the pain. You can also warm up a first-aid gel pack in the microwave and place it against your ear.
Step 3
Take some acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Sometimes that's enough to ease the pain. If over-the-counter pain medication doesn't help, then it might be time to see a doctor to rule out something more serious.
Step 4
Warm up some vegetable oil and then place a couple of drops right into the ear, as recommended by the website KidsGrowth.com. Repeat every few hours until the pain disappears. Or wet a cotton ball in the oil and place inside the ear.
Step 5
Use a hot water bottle as a pillow. According to Mother Nature, this will provide relief from pressure and provide warmth at the same time.
