How to Treat Otitis With Boric Acid

Otitis is an umbrella term that encompasses all manner of ear inflammations, including swimmer's ear (otitis externa) and labyrinthitis (otitis interna). The middle ear infection, one of the most common illnesses of early childhood, is also a type of otitis, known as otitis media.

There are a number of treatment options for otitis. One of the more common choices is boric acid: While the primary household use for boric acid is as an insecticide, there is research showing that boric acid can heal certain types of otitis, if administered properly.

Things You'll Need

• 4 percent boric acid solution
• Eyedropper

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply a few drops of 4 percent solution of boric acid in alcohol to the canal of the ear stricken with otitis. Boric acid is an antiseptic, which means that it can help fight the infection inside the ear. Some studies suggest that a water solution is equally effective, if not more so; if you feel more comfortable using a distilled water solution instead of alcohol, try that.

• 2

  Repeat the process of applying the drops twice a day. Look for symptoms to go down within a few days as you continue to use the drops.

• 3

  If the patient experiences any adverse side effects from the boric acid drops, like ear pain, intensified infection, or bleeding, stop the treatment right away and consult a doctor.

• 4

  If the boric acid isn't working, ask a doctor for a prescription antibiotic like ciprofloxacin, one of the most common prescription for ear infections. Amoxicillin is also commonly prescribed for people who are not allergic to it, according to the Mayo Clinic.