How to stop an earache fast depends on the cause of the pain, which may be related to cold exposure, pressure changes, allergies, sinusitis, or an ear infection. Ear pain can also worsen at night, making simple relief methods useful for reducing discomfort.
At-home methods like warm compresses, chewing gum, cold packs, gentle massage, and neck stretches may help relieve ear pain. These approaches can reduce pressure, improve circulation, decrease swelling, and relax tense muscles around the ear.
Ear pain often improves within 2 or 3 days, especially when it is not caused by an infection. Pain that persists, or occurs with fever, dizziness, discharge, or difficulty opening the mouth, should be assessed by a healthcare provider.
Home remedies for ear pain
To relieve ear pain, some simple tips include:
1. Applying warm compresses
A warm compress can provide gentle heat that improves blood flow around the ear and may help relieve congestion. To use this method, place a clean, warm towel over the ear for 5 to 10 minutes, making sure it is not hot enough to burn the skin. This can be a good way to ease ear pain in children, as it is noninvasive and usually does not cause discomfort.
Another option is to use a blow dryer on its lowest heat setting, holding it a few centimeters (about an inch) away from the ear so you do not burn the skin. This technique is especially helpful after swimming, as it can also help dry the ear canal.
2. Chewing gum
Chewing gum is one of the simplest ways to help relieve ear pain. The chewing motion gently works the muscles around the ear and can help open the Eustachian tubes. These tubes are small passageways that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat and help drain fluid that may build up in the ear.
3. Applying ice
Warm compresses are often most helpful, but a cold compress can sometimes reduce pain as well. Applying cold to the ear can decrease swelling, which may help calm the nerve endings in the area.
To use a cold compress, place ice in a plastic bag and wrap it in a clean towel, then gently hold it over the ear. Never place the bag of ice, or ice itself, directly on the skin, especially in children or older adults, as this can cause a cold burn.
4. Massaging the area
A gentle massage around the affected ear can help relieve ear pain, especially when it is triggered or worsened by stress. This type of massage may help relax tense muscles that have tightened in response to stress.
To do this massage, use your thumb to lightly stroke the skin around the ear, moving up and down with gentle pressure and continuing down toward the neck. Then repeat the same movement in front of the ear.
5. Stretching the neck
Stretching the neck is another way to relax the muscles and help relieve ear pain, especially when it is related to stress. Sit or stand with your back straight, and without turning your torso, slowly turn your head to one side. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds, then return to the center and repeat on the other side.
For another stretch, look straight ahead and gently tilt your head so that your ear moves toward your shoulder. You can deepen the stretch by placing your hand on the opposite side of your head, as shown above. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
When to see a doctor
Most ear pain is not serious and can usually be managed at home. However, you should see a doctor if:
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The pain does not improve within 2 to 3 days
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You also have other symptoms, such as fever, severe headache, or dizziness
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You notice any discharge or fluid coming from the ear
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You have difficulty opening your mouth
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some middle ear infections need antibiotics, but many improve without them, so persistent ear pain should be assessed by a healthcare provider to determine the right treatment.