How to Clear Up an Ear Infection

An ear infection is a painful and very aggravating condition usually caused by bacteria. Ear infections can be either inner, middle or outer ear infections and are called otitis interna, otitis media and otitis externa respectively. Outer and middle ear infections are the easiest to treat due to the fact that the infection is shallow enough that topical medications can be used. Antibiotics are usually reserved for persistent infections because with home care, most outer and middle ear infections resolve on their own.

Instructions

Treating an Ear Infection

• 1

  Start by going to your doctor to determine which type of ear infection you have. He can determine the need for medication. If medication is warranted, your doctor will prescribe either a topical antibiotic solution or suspension and, depending on the conditions, possibly an oral antibiotic.

• 2

  Treat middle and outer ear infections by addressing pain first. Pain relievers such as Motrin, Aleve, or Tylenol are well suited for the task. Application of heat with a warm wash cloth or heating pad may also help. This, over two to four days, resolves 80 percent of outer and middle ear infections.

• 3

  Treat severe or persistent ear infections by taking antibiotics as prescribed. Unless there is a perforation of the eardrum, antibiotic ear drops are usually the treatment of choice and are very effective. An oral medication may be necessary but, in both cases, the antibiotic regimen must be completed even if symptoms resolve before the course is complete. Failure to do so may result in reinfection.

• 4

  Treat inner ear infections by using pain medication in conjunction with oral antibiotics. There are many types of antibiotics and which one is used depends on the doctor's preference and any medical reasons why you may not be able to take certain medications. Again, the regimen must be completed as prescribed.

• 5

  Follow up with your doctor when the infection is resolved. Even if the infection appears to be resolved, there may be a need for further treatment. Only your doctor will be able to accurately determine this.