An ear ache can come in a variety of ways, such as a stabbing pain or a dull ache that throbs. You may experience a fever or changes in hearing along with the ache. Children and ear aches often go hand in hand, and this often stems from children having a shorter, horizontal natural tube inside the ear. If you or a family member suffers from frequent ear aches, talk to your doctor about home remedies such as garlic to reduce discomfort.
Cause
An ear ache may occur when you have an ear infection or experience a change in altitude. If you have an injury to your eardrum, you may also have ear pain. You may have a jaw problem, sinus infection or sore throat, and the pain from these conditions could radiate into your ear. Anytime you have ear pain, especially if the pain does not resolve quickly, contact your doctor to determine the exact cause for your condition.
Garlic
Garlic may provide an easy home remedy for ear aches. To use garlic, simply peel a clove of fresh garlic and place the clove in the opening of your ear. Be sure that the clove is large enough that it will not drop down into your ear canal, a situation that could result in additional discomfort. People who use this method often claim the garlic begins to help relieve pain almost immediately.
You may want to talk to your doctor about placing a few drops of garlic oil into your ear. Your doctor can help you determine if this approach will offer the best treatment for your particular condition.
Treatment
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help to ease ear aches, but you should talk to your doctor before using any of these products since some may interact with health conditions or medications. If you have an ear ache from altitude changes, chewing gum or yawning may help to ease the discomfort. Pain from ear infections may ease if you move to an upright or sitting position instead of lying down.
Considerations
Before you use garlic or any other home treatment, consult your doctor. You cannot treat an ear ache or any condition appropriately without knowing the cause for your symptoms. If your doctor agrees that garlic or garlic oil may help, she can tell you how often to use the garlic and when to return for a followup examination if you continue to experience ear pain.
