The following article provides complete information on ear infection treatment, which entails certain medications along with some effective home remedies.
An ear infection refers to an infection in any of the three parts of the ear i.e. external, middle, or inner ear. Infection in the external part is known as Otitis externa or swimmer’s ear, in the middle ear is known as Otitis media, and in the inner ear is known as Otitis interna. The main causes of this condition include entry of certain foreign bodies, germs, virus, or bacteria in the ear, which hamper its normal functioning.
Some of the symptoms are pain and swelling in the ear, headache, inability to sleep, discharge from the ear, fever, nasal congestion, and irritability. This can occur in both, adults as well as infants, and can be very discomforting if timely treatment is not taken. Below are some effective home remedies as well as medications which a person should follow.
Home Remedies
» Salt
In case there is accumulation of pus or fluid in the ear, then just heat some salt, pour it in a sock or a small bag, and place it near the ear for fifteen minutes. This will aid in clearing off the pus as well as minimize the pain caused.
» Olive Oil and Garlic Juice
Make a mixture of garlic juice and olive oil, and pour it in the ear. Both garlic and olive oil are known for their antibiotic properties, so when they are put in the ear, they help in providing relief.
» Essential Oils
Put a drop of any of the essential oils such as clove oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or almond oil in the ear. This helps in reducing the discomfort.
» Diet
One of the causes behind an ear infection can be a vitamin and mineral deficiency in the body. So, a diet which provides the body with the right amount of zinc, vitamin C, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and vitamin B3 should be taken. Toddlers can be given breast milk as well as juices of fruits, and vegetables rich in vitamin C.
Medication
» Pain Relievers
Doctors prescribe certain pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin. These medications minimize the pain as well as cure the fever, which might occur in the patient.
» Antibiotics
Antibiotics may also be prescribed by the doctors. Antibiotics however, only kill the bacteria and not the virus that is causing the infection.
» Decongestants
Antihistamines, diphenhydramine, and pseudoephedrine are some of the decongestants that may be prescribed to adults. These decongestants treat the bacterial infections, and also minimize the swelling in the Eustachian tube.
The treatment methods mentioned above provide relief in most patients. However, if the bacteria responsible for the infection does not respond to these treatments, and it continues for more than three months, then a surgery, known as tympanostomy, may be suggested by the doctors as the last option.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
