From the Research
Nonpharmacological treatment options for otitis media in adults include self-care measures such as applying warm compresses, elevating the head while sleeping, avoiding worsening activities, gentle nasal irrigation with saline solution, and staying hydrated. These approaches can help manage symptoms while the infection resolves by reducing inflammation, promoting drainage from the middle ear, or preventing factors that worsen Eustachian tube dysfunction. Some key points to consider include:
- Applying warm compresses to the affected ear for 10-15 minutes several times daily can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation by improving blood circulation to the area 1.
- Elevating the head while sleeping with extra pillows promotes drainage and reduces pressure in the middle ear.
- Avoiding activities that can worsen symptoms is important, such as smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and air travel (if possible) until the infection improves.
- Gentle nasal irrigation with saline solution can help clear nasal passages connected to the middle ear through the Eustachian tubes, as suggested by studies on nasal steroids and saline sprays 2, 3.
- Staying hydrated helps thin mucus secretions, making them easier to drain. While these measures can provide symptom relief, they should complement rather than replace medical treatment, especially for moderate to severe infections. If symptoms persist beyond 2-3 days, worsen, or are accompanied by high fever, severe pain, or hearing loss, medical attention should be sought promptly as antibiotics or other interventions may be necessary, as indicated by studies on the incidence and management of acute otitis media in adults 4. It's also important to note that the effectiveness of nasal decongestants, oral decongestants, and oral decongestant-antihistamines in the treatment of acute otitis media is not well supported by evidence, and their use is not recommended as they do not change the natural course of the disease 5. Overall, the most recent and highest quality study 3 suggests that nonpharmacological treatments can be effective in managing symptoms of otitis media in adults, and should be used in conjunction with medical treatment as needed.