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How to Keep Eardrums From Bursting From Infection

Ear infections are easily treated, but if left untreated, they can lead to severe results, such as the eardrum bursting. Ear infections are easily detected by pain in the ear, a fever and dizziness. Infection causes swelling in the inner ear that can press on the eardrum and eventually burst it, which can lead to deafness. It is extremely important to know how to prevent this from happening to you.

Things You'll Need

  • Antibiotics
  • Expectorant
  • Decongestant
  • Anti-inflammatory pain reliever
  • Hot compress
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Instructions

  1. Preventing Eardrums from Bursting

    • 1

      Take medication at the first sign of ear pain or discomfort. Take an expectorant such as guaifenesin, which is available over-the-counter, to help the body break up and rid itself of mucus build-up in the ear or surrounding areas. Take an over-the-counter decongestant, such as pseudoephedrine, to decrease any swelling in or around the ear drum. Take anti-inflammatory pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to alleviate pain and treat inflammation around the ear drum.

    • 2

      Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Have your doctor check your ears to see if you have an ear infection. If you do, fill the prescription he or she gives you for antibiotics. Follow the directions for the antibiotics, and take the full dose. Do not stop taking the antibiotics even if the symptoms subside because the infection can return.

    • 3

      Use a wash cloth to create a warm compress. Run the wash cloth under hot water, ring it out, and then place it over the ear. Repeat this process to keep the ear warm for 30 minutes, as this will sooth the symptoms and help reduce inflammation. Drink at least six eight-ounce glasses of water to properly flush your system and help the body think out any excessive mucus build up in the ear.

    • 4

      Follow up with your doctor as you self-treat your symptoms. See your doctor immediately if symptoms persist or get worse such as fluid from the ear, excruciating pain in the ear or a fever more than 101 degrees F. The condition is corrected when the symptoms slowly but steadily go away. The duration of an ear infection is typically two to three days.

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