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What Can You Do for a Child's Ear Ache?

Earaches are common in children and most will have earaches associated with ear infections by the time they reach 3 years old, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Typically ear infections are the source of earaches, but not all will require treatment. However, treating the pain itself is something all parents will want to do to keep their children comfortable.

  1. Heat

    • Heat tends to relieve the pain associated with an ear infection. Use a heating pad set on low or medium and have the child place his head on the pad. A warm water bottle will also work equally well, according to HealthSquare.com. If your child does not appear to be seriously ill, the pediatrician may suggest watching symptoms for a few days before prescribing antibiotics to work on the infection.

    Chewing Gum

    • Although it is not safe for very small children, those old enough for gum can sometimes get relief from earaches by chewing it. The chewing motion and regular swallowing associated with chewing gum may relieve pain and pressure caused by the buildup of fluid behind the eardrum in many cases, according to the National Institutes of Health.

    Olive Oil

    • A home remedy for ear pain is using drops of olive oil in the affected ear. Olive oil is sometimes used to help remove buildup of earwax, and if inner-ear pressure is being caused from wax blockage, this could help remedy the problem. If the pain results from infection, the oil will not worsen the problem and the soothing effects of the oil could still relieve pain.

    OTC Pain Relievers

    • In addition to pain relief methods listed above, the use of over-the-counter medication is safe and effective for children. Drugs such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can successfully relieve pain associated with ear infections. Never give children or teenagers aspirin because it can possibly lead to Reye's syndrome, which is a potentially fatal illness, according to WebMD.

    Altitude Change

    • The quick ascent or descent from one altitude to another, usually in an airplane during takeoff or landing, can cause considerable ear pain. Children do not often understand what is happening, making this common occurrence even more traumatic. Encourage kids to swallow or offer them gum to chew as this can often cause ears to "pop" and relieve the pressure-induced pain. For babies who appear to be suffering during a change in altitude, try to get them to suck on a bottle as this will help accomplish the same "pop" of the ears and bring immediate relief.

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