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How to Ease Ear Infection Pain

Most people remember the pain of childhood ear infections, and parents are all too familiar with the anxiety of dealing with ear infections in infants. Although these infections are most common among children, they occur in adults as well. Most ear infections either pass by themselves or end shortly after treatment with antibiotics, but during this period, the discomfort can be intense. A few simple remedies can help deal with the pain.

  1. Painkillers

    • Most ear infections begin when a cold causes the Eustachian tube to swell. Fluid builds up behind the swollen tube, putting pressure on it. Despite the fact that colds typically cause ear infections, cold medicine is not useful for mitigating the pain. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce pain caused by the swelling and pressure, but have no effect on the swelling itself. In addition, children with ear infections should not be given aspirin.

    Elevation

    • The pain caused by an ear infection is usually greatest when lying down. Elevating the head can relieve some of the pressure and therefore, some of the discomfort. A pillow under the head can be used in most cases, but children who sleep in a crib or under the age of two, should not be given pillows. Instead, parents can elevate very young children by sitting them upright, supporting them with their arms or in a car seat.

    Compresses

    • Heat and moisture are traditional remedies for the pain of an ear infection. Wetting a washcloth or towel in hot water and applying it to the side of the head nearest the infection can have a soothing effect. Change the towel to ensure it remains warm. Adults may use chemical heating pads, like the type used for muscle pain; however, these may be too hot for most children. Heating pads should never be used with infants.

    Swallowing

    • Because ear infections result from the Eustachian tube swelling closed, any action that tends to open the tube can help relieve the infection. Swallowing opens the Eustachian tube slightly, so drinking plenty of fluids is a good idea during an ear infection. Chewing gum is another way to promote swallowing. Small children may be resistant to swallowing because of the pain of the infection; however, parents should encourage their children to swallow as a way of improving the infection over time.

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