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What to Do When You Have Severe Ear Pain

Severe ear pain is usually indicative of an ear infection or pressure from built up fluid in the middle ear. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, 75 percent of children have at least one ear infection by the age of three. Although ear infections usually resolve themselves, see a doctor if you or your child is experiencing severe ear pain. In rare circumstances, ear infections can lead to serious complications or hearing loss.

  1. Home Care

    • Place a warm or cold compress over the affected ear to help relieve pain. Stay in a reclined or upright position instead of lying down. Lying flat can cause fluid in the middle ear to put more pressure on your eardrum, intensifying your pain. Try to chew gum to relieve pressure and feelings of fullness in the ear that may increase pain. Purchase a sterile dropper at your local drugstore and place a few small drops of olive oil in your ear canal several times a day. Olive oil is safe and effective at helping relieve ear pain. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Keeping your body as healthy as possible will help you fight off the infection faster.

    Medications

    • Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can help relieve ear pain. Take all medications exactly as directed and check with your doctor or pharmacist about any potential drug interactions if you are taking other medications. Try pain-relieving eardrops for added relief. You can use many eardrops with over-the-counter pain relievers, but always check with a medical professional if you are unsure. Since most ear infections clear on their own, prescription medications are usually unnecessary. If you have persistent ear infections or if your child develops an ear infection before he is six months old, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help fight off the infection.

    When to See Your Doctor

    • You should always see your doctor for severe ear pain. If your ear pain is accompanied by dizziness, headache, swelling or weak facial muscles seek medical attention as soon as possible. Severe ear pain that suddenly stops without warning could be a sign that you ruptured your eardrum. Seek emergency medical attention and do not use eardrops or place any other liquid or object inside your ear if you suspect you have a ruptured eardrum. If your pain does not subside within a day or two or gets worse, you may need further medical treatment.

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