From the Guidelines
For ear ache relief at home, taking over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) at 325-650mg every 4-6 hours or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 200-400mg every 4-6 hours is the most effective way to reduce pain and inflammation, as supported by the study published in Nature Reviews Disease Primers 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Apply a warm compress to the affected ear for 15-20 minutes several times daily to improve blood circulation and reduce discomfort.
- Keeping your head elevated while resting can help drain fluid and reduce pressure.
- Over-the-counter ear drops containing benzocaine (like Auralgan) can provide temporary numbing relief, though follow package instructions carefully, as noted in the clinical practice guideline for acute otitis externa 1.
- Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, including cotton swabs, which can worsen the problem.
- If the pain is related to air pressure changes, try chewing gum or yawning to equalize pressure.
- Gargling with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) may help if the ear pain is connected to a sore throat.
When to Seek Medical Attention
- If pain is severe, persists beyond 2-3 days, is accompanied by fever over 101°F, hearing loss, or discharge from the ear, as these may indicate a more serious condition requiring professional treatment.
- It is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve with home remedies, as emphasized in the study published in Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery 1.
Additional Considerations
- The use of topical anesthetic drops, such as benzocaine otic solution, should be done with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may mask progression of underlying disease while pain is being suppressed 1.
- Adding a topical steroid to topical antimicrobial drops may hasten pain relief in some cases, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness 1.
From the Research
Ear Ache Home Remedies
Some home remedies can help alleviate ear ache symptoms. These include:
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to help manage pain and reduce fever 2, 3
- Applying a warm compress to the affected ear to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation
- Elevating the head while sleeping to help reduce congestion and alleviate pressure in the ear
- Using ear drops to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation, although the effectiveness of ear drops is not well established 4
- Avoiding excessive moisture and trauma to the ear, as these can exacerbate ear infections 5
Prevention of Ear Infections
Preventing ear infections can help reduce the incidence of ear aches. Some ways to prevent ear infections include:
- Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritants
- Getting vaccinated against the flu and other illnesses that can increase the risk of ear infections
- Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly
- Avoiding sharing utensils or drinks with others
- Drying the ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming to prevent moisture from accumulating in the ear canal 5
Treatment of Ear Infections
If an ear infection is suspected, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can diagnose the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include: