7 Fast Facts About Soothing an Earache Quickly

• By 13CURE
• General Health
• Nov 20, 2020

Undeniably, an earache isn’t ideal. Yet, pain in the ears is a common problem that many adults and children face on a regular basis. So, what can you do about it? Here are 7 fast facts about soothing an earache quickly.

1. Ear infections are the most common reason behind ear pain.

Ear pain is frequently caused by an ear infection. This often involves a build-up of fluid within the eustachian tubes of the ear. In turn, this blocks the canal that drains fluid from the ear and also creates the perfect environment for bacteria to flourish. However, ear pain may also arise from injury, neural issues, or radiating pain from the jaw or other areas. If your ear pain is severe or not relieved by home remedies, it’s important to book a visit with your family doctor to determine what is going on beneath the surface and also to begin finding solutions to your or your child’s ear pain.

2. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help.

For acute ear infections, over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce and manage your pain. It’s an easy go-to for treating ear pain since many families and individuals already have these entities within their medicine cabinet in their home. These pain medications are further safe when taking antibiotics, and they can also help eliminate a fever. Be sure to always follow the instructions on the label for dosage and frequency of use. For children, there is often a specific ‘children’ version. Again, be sure to read the labels carefully and also be aware of the age relating to dosage instructions.

3. Don’t sleep on it!

Treating ear pain may prove difficult when you sleep with that same ear face down on your pillow or bed. Doing so may actually worsen your pain. Instead, elevate your head or sleep with your ear facing up. This allows proper drainage to take place, which can help reduce your pain and reduce the risk of infection or aggravation.

4. Try neck exercises.

Earaches may also occur from pressure in the ear canal. This means that an infection has not taken place, but that there is a blockage of some sort leading to pressure build-up and pain. Interestingly, some neck movements may help reduce this pressure, effectively relieving your earache. Attempt to rotate your neck one way and then the other. Do so slowly and carefully as to not cause more pain. Repeat these movements throughout the day and see if your pain levels decrease.

5. Experiment with hot and cold packs.

Whether hot or cold packs help may vary from person to person. The warmth can help relax tight muscles and increase blood flow. Meanwhile, cold packs can help reduce inflammation and decrease your pain levels. Some may prefer to alternate between the two as well. Try both or one or the other, and determine what works best for you. Does it help lower your pain?

6. Toddlers are more prone to ear infections than older children or adults.

Young children may experience frequent earaches and ear infections. This is because their eustachian tubes are more narrow, shorter, and more horizontal. Usually, over-the-counter remedies can help. However, if the pain persists, it’s important to book an appointment with your doctor.

7. See your GP if the pain persists.

Is the pain just not going away? Is it getting worse? It’s time to book an appointment. 13 Cure has home doctors can come straight to your home within a matter of two to three hours.

Are you ready to book? Register with us today, and finally, get to the bottom of your or your child’s persistent ear pain and earaches.

Name: Dr. Muhammad Mohsin, General Practitioner

University Degree: MBBS, AMC

Bio: Dr. Muhammad Mohsin completed his studies from Univerisity of Health Sciences, Lahore Pakistan in 2008. He came to Australia in 2012 and has worked as a resident and GP in various hospitals and medical centres across Australia. He has a particular interest in men's health, travels medicine, chronic disease management, and general family medicine.