How to Manage an Earache

An ear infection is typically caused when microbes that have caused a runny nose move into the eustachian tubes, which connect the nasal passages to the inner ear. Once these microbes are inside the ear, they cause infection and swelling. It's the swelling that pushes against the ear drum and the sensitive nerve endings of the inner ear that causes painful infections. Children are more prone to earaches because their underdeveloped eustachian tubes are more likely to become infected than adults. Once a person develops an earache, they should see a doctor for an antibiotic to fight the infection. Until then, home remedies can help to ease the pain.

Things You'll Need

• Olive oil
• Medicine dropper
• Cotton ball
• Water

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Sit up to make the blood drain from the ear. This can help the ear feel somewhat better immediately.

• 2

  Place olive oil into a medicine dropper and warm it in the microwave.

• 3

  Test the oil against your wrist to ensure that it is not too warm.

• 4

  Drop the oil into the infected ear. Use only enough to coat the lining of the ear.

• 5

  Place a cotton ball in the outer part of the ear so that it covers the opening to the inner ear to prevent the oil from draining.

• 6

  Drink water to flush the system and to clear the eustachian tubes through the act of swallowing.