Ear infections (otitis media) may occur in adults, but the weaker immune systems and immaturely shaped Eustachian tubes of children make them far more vulnerable. Rarely does an ear infection occur on its own. Usually, it's a secondary infection, with a cold or allergies preceding it. Warm garlic mullein eardrops combined with acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help alleviate pain while the infection is resolved.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is based on the theory that subluxations (or misalignments) occur in the spine and inhibit the musculoskeletal system's and nervous system's abilities to function. This may lead to a variety of maladies, including ear infection. Chiropractic adjustments to the back of the skull and first vertebra in the neck may be highly effective in treating ear infections. According to a study conducted by renowned chiropractor Dr. Joan Fallon, "nearly 80 percent of the children [in her study] were free of ear infections for at least the six-month period following their initial visits."
CranioSacral Therapy
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is based on the theory that a very light touch can release restrictions in the cerebrospinal fluid and improve the nervous system's ability to function. According to studies conducted by John E. Upledger--the osteopathic physician who developed CST--when the nervous system is operating at full capacity, it can fight a variety of infections and problems on its own. This includes ear infections.
Diet Modification
One of the primary symptoms of a food sensitivity or allergy is increased congestion. This excess fluid may become trapped in the Eustachian tubes of the ear and become a breeding ground for bacteria. It may be worth keeping a food diary and/or trying an elimination diet to see if ear infections have any correlation to a particular food. Dairy, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, and egg whites are prime offenders.
Antiobiotics
There is some debate on whether antibiotics are the best approach to ear infections, as many infections heal on their own after a few days. That said, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends antibiotics as a course of treatment. It's important to finish the prescription and not stop taking the antibiotics when symptoms appear to improve. This is a prime cause of relapse.
Drainage Tubes
The surgical installation of drainage tubes in the eardrum can alleviate the infection. Because the treatment is so invasive, it's done only when infections are recurring or constant. This procedure is most commonly done on children under general anesthesia. It is, however, an outpatient treatment. The tubes fall out on their own when they are no longer necessary, usually once the Eustachian tubes are further developed.
