Earache: How to Lessen the Pain and Speed Recovery
Earaches happen relatively infrequently for most people, but when they do they’re a source of tremendous
discomfort. And even with a doctor’s care, there really isn’t any instant cure for them.
So no matter what your situation is, if you get an earache, you’ll most likely have to live with it for a few days.
But there are a number of ways to lessen the pain of an earache and ease the discomfort you may be feeling.
Try these tricks for reducing the pain of an earache:
Hot compress
Warm, moist heat around the ear is one of the most effective ways to relieve earaches, according to doctors. Start
by soaking a towel in hot water then wringing it out to dry. This warm compress should bring speedy relief from the
pain. Best of all, you can do this to get relief from the symptoms even if you’re getting treatment for an
infection that’s causing the pain. As the towel cools, soak it again with hot water and repeat it as much as you
need. Another means of applying heat to the area is to use a hot water bottle, wrapped in a towel. This can also
function as a pillow, which is handy if you’re lying down at the time.
Mineral oil
Warm mineral oil is an effective means of relieving the pain of an earache in many cases. Start by using a pot of
hot water to warm the oil, and then test it by putting a few drops on your arm like you would with a baby bottle.
The oil should feel just slightly warm. Next, use an eyedropper to apply a few drops into your ear. Tug gently on
the earlobe to help the oil go all the way down into the ear. But avoid this remedy if your doctor has diagnosed
you with a perforated eardrum.
Pain relievers
Adults with ear pain may also find relief from common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or
acetaminophen. But children should never take aspirin, and parents should talk to the child’s doctor before
administering other pain relievers.
Get rid of congestion
Congested sinuses can often cause or intensify earaches. Try taking a decongestant recommended by your pain management doctor.
Watch out for wind
Wind can often be annoying for people with earaches. If so, stay out of the wind or wear a scarf or hat that covers
your ears.
In-flight remedies
The pressure changes encountered when flying can intensify ear pain. But by chewing on gum or sucking on candy
during the flight, you help work muscles that send air to the inner ear. The “pop” sensation this typically prompts
will help balance the pressure and relieve some of the pain. You can also accomplish the same thing by relaxing
your face muscles, holding your nose, and gently blowing with your mouth closed.
Source: The Doctors Book of Home Remedies, by Sid Kirchheimer and the editors of Prevention Magazine Health Books.
Rodale Press, 1993