Showing posts with label ear pain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ear pain. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Home Remedies to Treat Earache and Ear Infections: Natural Treatment for Ear Pain

Otitis or infection of the ear is associated severe ear pain which may be attributed to a host of caustive factors. Middle ear infection, inner ear infection, swimmer’s ear or outer ear infection, whatever may be the cause, an earache hurts a lot. Though the condition can affect individuals of any age group, it is frequently observed in children and young adults. There are several natural earache cures and home remedies which promise to speed up the process of healing.

What causes Earache?
Ear Infection and
Ear Pain


Ear pain results from infection, inflammation and swelling of the outer canal of the ear or the membrane separating the outer ear from the middle ear. Eustachian tube blockage is an important etiological factor, since there occurs an accumulation of pus and fluids that trigger pain and heaviness within the ear.
  1. Typically, microbes, such as bacteria, virus and fungi cause ear pain; this usually occurs due to an infection in the upper respiratory system and common cold.
  2. Other causes include moisture, allergic reaction to allergens or microbes trapped within the ear.
  3. Excessive production of ear wax is another significant cause
  4. Sudden changes in the pressure also contributes to earache
  5. Punctured ear drum is a serious cause and necessitates instant medical care.
  6. Exposure to hair dyes and chlorinated water trigger earache as well.



Symptoms of Ear Infection

Here are some common symptoms that are associated with ear infection,
  • There may be heaviness, steady pain or a throbbing sensation which may be associated with headache
  • Itching within the ear
  • Muffled hearing
  • Popping sensation in the ear
  • Clear discharge, or a bloody yellow-green discharge
  • Fever
  • Dizziness
Home Remedies to treat Earache

There are several natural cures and home remedies that are effective in management of ear troubles. These natural home based remedies include,

  1. Garlic oil: Garlic is a potent infection fighter. It helps decrease the population and activity of most microbes, thus checking infection promptly. Instill 2 to 3 drops of garlic oil in the affected ear, thrice every day.
  2. Lavender oil; Lavender oil reduces inflammation and pain quickly. It also allays discomfort and itching in the ear. Apply a drop to the outside of the ear and rub gently. Use frequently through the day.
  3. Eucalyptus oil: Eucalyptus oil also battles infection effectively. It opens the Eustachian tube, reduces heaviness and pressure in the era, and helps in the drainage of pus and fluids. Add 5 drops of the oil to a bowl of boiling water; place a towel over the head and inhale the vapors. Follow this twice daily.

Natural Treatments for Earache Relief

Here are some natural ways to achieve ear pain relief,
  • Place a warm compress (you may use Lavender essential oil) over the affected ear. Replace compresses until the pain starts reducing. Heat will ease the pain as well as facilitate rapid healing.
  • Drinking hot chamomile tea is also recommended; it is soothing.
  • Do not use cotton buds, they can puncture the ear drum and further aggravate the condition.
  •  Also refrain from instilling hydrogen peroxide drops to clean the ear; it irritates the ear canal. 
In addition there are some herbs and supplements that have been found effective in the management and treatment of earache,
Echinacea Treats
Ear Infection
  1. Echinacea: this herb clears up infection rapidly. It enhances the working of the immune system, and is rather effective when the ear pain is due to upper respiratory trouble.
  2. Vitamin C: vitamin C perks up the function of the immune system as well. It fights infections; and importantly, prevents recurrences. You may take a supplement daily (500 mg twice daily for 1 week), or have a glass of lime juice every morning. Also incorporate bell peppers, tomatoes, chilies, oranges, sweet limes and guavas in the diet.
  3. Vitamin A: vitamin A is an equally powerful immunity booster. Taken in conjunct with vitamin C it speeds up healing. Take a 25000 I.U. supplement daily for a week.