Ear pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp burning sensation that lingers for days. It occurs for a variety of reasons, including ear wax buildup, allergies, cold viruses, ear infections, sinus infections, sore throat, ear pressure changes or ruptured eardrums. Because pain in the ears can be frustrating and make even simple tasks such as talking on the phone difficult, it is important to understand how to remedy it.
Step 1
Swallow a pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve any pain and swelling. If pain does not subside or wears off too soon with one type of medication, it is safe to use the other. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the bottle.
Step 2
Apply a few drops of warm vegetable oil, olive oil or garlic oil into the ear. Use the bulb syringe and repeat as often as needed. Just make sure the oil isn't too hot.
Step 3
Hold a cool wet wash cloth or cold pack to the outer part of your ear for about 20 minutes.
Step 4
Prop yourself upright on pillows or a wedge if you feel discomfort while lying down. Or sleep with the painful ear up.
Step 5
Administer an anesthetic ear drop to help numb the eardrum and ease any pain for a few hours at a time. A doctor can provide a prescription for this type of ear drop.
Tips and Warnings
- If you develop ear pain while descending from a high altitude, chew on gum or repeatedly swallow to pop the ears. Give small children something to drink or a pacifier or bottle to suck on during descent. To prevent ear pain, never put anything in your ear, including cotton swabs. Always wipe the ears with a dry cloth after swimming or bathing.
- Call your doctor if ear pain lasts for more than 48 hours or is accompanied by a severe headache, facial muscle weakness or swelling in the ear area. Seek medical attention if any pus or liquid drains from the ear. These symptoms could be signs of a serious injury such as a ruptured eardrum.
Things You'll Need
- Pain reliever
- Bulb syringe
- Medicine dropper
- Wash cloth
- Cold pack
- Pillows
- Anesthetic drops
- Chewing gum
