Most of us, at least once in our life, have experienced severe discomfort due to earache, especially during a cold. The problem begins when the Eustachian tube, which extends from the bottom of the throat to the eardrum, is no longer able to regulate fluids or pressure in the ear. As a result, pus or mucus builds up behind the eardrum, causing pressure and pain. The more pressure there is, the greater the pain. Antibiotic treatment can cure the infection that is causing the pain, but for temporary relief, try these tips.
Steps
Step 1. Squeeze a towel soaked in hot water and press it against your ear
This should give you immediate relief. Repeat the procedure when the towel becomes cold, and when necessary. At night, wrap a hot water bottle in a towel and use it as a pillow for the affected ear.
Step 2. Heat a gel pack from the first aid kit in water or in the microwave
Make sure it's not too hot, but just enough so that you can press it against your ear to feel a benefit right away. The same advice applies to the old remedy of heating a small dish, wrapping it in a towel, and applying it to the ear.
Step 3. Relieve ear pain when accompanied by a cold or fever by taking aspirin or other over-the-counter pain relievers, but only if the patient is an adult
This method should never be given to children with earache. They should always be referred to a doctor as soon as possible.
Step 4. Pull the Eustachian tube back in case of severe blockage with a decongestant
Step 5. Chew gum or candy when you get on the plane
The pressure changes when you take off or land, and builds up in the ear. Chewing gum or candies activate the muscles that send air into the inner ear, thus uniforming the pressure. That's why, when it happens, you hear a "pop".
Advice
- If you have to be outside and suffer from earaches, wear a scarf to protect them from the wind, or put a cotton ball in both.
- Put a few drops of warm olive oil in your ear and hold them with a cotton ball; remove it after about an hour.
