Ear Pain Relief

Ear pain, which is scientifically termed as 'otalgia', may not be always related to ear problems. It can also develop due to some other causes like tonsils or sinus infections, tooth infections, etc. Hence, otalgia or ear pain, is classified as primary and referred ones. The former originates from the inner ear due to different reasons, like infection or obstruction, whereas referred ear pain is caused by a condition that develops outside the ear, like tonsils or sinus infections. It has been observed that more than 50% of the reported cases of ear pain are referred ones. Most people find ear pain intolerable and excruciating, as it affects their daily activities. So ear pain relief is very important to bring some respite to their condition. But severe and persistent ear pain requires immediate medical attention. The following are some methods, which can bring you ear pain relief.

Prescribed Medication
As in case of any other medical condition, it is always better to consult a doctor in case of ear pain. A doctor can analyze the condition and pinpoint the exact cause. He may prescribe some medicines including ear pain relief drops. In case of ear infection pain relief, the prescribed drugs may include some oral antibiotics to reduce the inflammation, and some steroidal ear drops. This is the best method for ear pain relief in children, as it is advisable not to take any chances.

Over-The-Counter Medication
Many people resort to over-the-counter medication for ear pain relief. These medicines are easily available in supermarkets and pharmacies. These include oral medication, along with pain killers and some ear pain relief drops too. If the pain does not subside within 24 hours, you have to consult your doctor immediately. You have to follow the instructions given on the label of the medicines. It is better to avoid administering such medicines, especially aspirin, for earache in children.

Natural Remedies for Ear Pain Relief
As far as ear pain is concerned, there is a wide range of home remedies. The most popular home remedies for earache are basil, garlic, mustard seed oil, chewing gum, etc. Extract the juice of basil leaves and put two drops in the affected ear. If basil leaves are not available, you can use the juice of garlic cloves. You can even crush some boiled garlic cloves with a pinch of salt and put this poultice in a clean cloth. Now place this dressing on the affected ear. Some people use hydrogen peroxide as ear drops. It is also believed that a few drops of lukewarm oil is good for ear pain relief. You have to add two to three drops to alleviate the pain. Chewing gum is also helpful in providing relief from ear pain, by opening up the blocked Eustachian tube. Even if most of these methods are effective, you should not wait for more than one or two days to administer them. If there is no ear pain relief, contact your doctor immediately.

Even though there are many ways to counter ear pain, the preferred and safest way is to consult a doctor. Meanwhile, you can adopt preventive measures to prevent the occurrence of ear pain. Prevent any obstruction of the ear canal by avoiding safety pins, cotton swabs, etc. Protect yourselves from constant exposure to loud noises. Cover your ears properly during extremely cold conditions, use ear plugs while swimming, and beware of flu and allergies, which can cause ear pain.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.