What can make an ear infection hurt less?

1. Apply a warm compress to your ear. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain. You can use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm towel.

2. Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

3. Use ear drops. Ear drops can help to kill bacteria or fungus that may be causing the infection. They can also help to reduce pain and inflammation.

4. Elevate your head. This can help to reduce pressure on your eardrum and relieve pain.

5. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to thin mucus and reduce congestion.

6. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Smoking can irritate your ears and make the pain worse.

7. Get plenty of rest. This can help your body to fight off the infection and heal.

8. See your doctor if your ear infection does not improve within a few days. You may need antibiotics or other treatment to clear up the infection.

9. Use saline nasal spray. Saline nasal spray can help to clear congestion and reduce pressure on the eardrum.

10. Gargle with warm salt water. Gargling with warm salt water can help to reduce pain and inflammation in your throat, which can also help to relieve ear pain.

11. Avoid flying if you have an ear infection. The changes in air pressure can worsen the pain.

12. Chew gum. Chewing gum can help to equalize the pressure in your ears and relieve pain.

13. Use a humidifier. A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and reduce congestion.

14. Avoid using cotton swabs in your ears. Cotton swabs can push wax and debris deeper into your ears and make the infection worse.