Earaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies

Experiencing earaches can be an exhausting experience. Whether it's a dull, echoic pain or a sharp, throbbing sensation, earaches can turn calm, good days into miserable ones. The consistency of pain differs from person to person and the pain can last for a few days to a month--or even longer, if left untreated! This is why it's recommended that you resort to some quick and effective home remedies for earache to temporarily relieve the pain while you wait for your online doctor's appointment.

Earaches are quite common in children. Research shows that 75 percent of children experience at least one ear infection before they even turn 3, which can be treated with minimal action. However, in adults, it can be due to pain in some other body parts.

Let's look at the most common causes of earache and how to mitigate them at your home.

Why Do You Experience Earaches?

Many sources can cause earaches. The most widespread causes of earaches are bacterial diseases and viral infections that are often the result of upper respiratory infections, certain allergies, excess mucus, or a simple cold. Another main cause includes injury to the ear or the head that can lead to agonizing pain in the ear.  

Some of these issues can be easily solved with the home remedies for earaches discussed in this blog. However, if the symptoms persist, it is always best to book a quick online doctor appointment.

Home Remedies for Earaches

Earaches can be uncomfortable and painful. Below are the top remedies for earaches, which are tested by many individuals who are in the same boat. Choose the best option to alleviate your pain.

 

Use Warm or Cold Compress

One of the best home remedies for earache is keeping a warm or cold compress. Naturally, heating pads are used for various types of pain as they relax the muscles for better blood circulation.

Soak a washcloth in warm or cold water and hold it to the affected area of your ear for 12-15 minutes, which will help reduce the inflammation.

Rinse Your Ear With Saltwater

The next home remedy for earache includes the most common item in every house: salt. Mix one glass of warm water with one teaspoon of water. After a good stir, rinse your ear with the water thoroughly or use an eyedropper so that the water can reach inside the ear. Tilt your face from time to time to drain the water. However, if the pain is excruciating, get a second opinion, preferably from a virtual doctor, to avoid maximizing the pain.  

Try a Classic Chewing Gum Technique

Chewing gum is a great way to balance out the air pressure in your ears. It is the easiest home remedy for earache which can help adults and children both. One small packet of gum can soothe the sore sensation within a few minutes. Try it if your ear hurts while flying to see if it helps or not.

Wear a Scarf

Earache cases are commonly related to places with cold temperatures. If you are living in Minnesota or a similar region, keep a scarf at all times and wrap it around your ears to get quick relief with a cool outfit accessory.

Book an Online Consultation Today

Treating earaches is challenging at home, as it is difficult to determine the real cause behind them. However, natural remedies can be the first step to treating them. Try one of the methods discussed above to alleviate your pain, but if it persists or you are experiencing ear pain due to some traumatic injury, check out TelMDcare,  a virtual facility that is housed by expert doctors who deliver healthcare solutions 24/7 for adults and children.

Reach out to us today and book your online doctor's appointment.