Ear infections are a common problem afflicting a number of people around the world. A sensory organ that aids in the process of hearing and also helps in maintaining body balance the ear consists of three parts, namely the outer ear, middle ear and the inner ear. While the other parts are just as susceptible to infections, it is the middle ear that is often invaded by viruses and bacteria which in turn causes ear inflammation. Middle ear infections also known as otitis media is often seen in babies and younger children. In fact almost all children suffer from ear infections before they are around five years of age.
Other than middle ear infections, inflammation of the external ear also known as otitis externa and inner ear also known as otitis interna is also quite common and often results in hearing problems and the loss of balance. While others may get ear infections regularly it is seen that often people with weak immune systems like newborns and toddlers are prone to suffering from recurrent ear infections owing to their weak immune system and short ear canal. Moreover a cold can cause a blockage in the ear tube and lead to ear infections signs and symptoms.
How to Recognize a Ear Infection in Children and Adults
A baby affected with ear infection is often extremely irritable and can seen pulling his or her ears constantly. In older children and adults ear infection may cause pain, difficulty in sleeping, reduced appetite, headaches, hearing loss and a loss of balance accompanied by dizziness and nausea. If the ear infection is mild then it will resolve on its own easily without the need of any external intervention.
However for persistent symptoms it is best to get medical aid as soon as possible. The doctor may recommend antibiotics like Suprax, Pediazole or Amoxicillin to clear up the infection. If you cannot get medical aid immediately, then using simple home remedies can help in temporary relief from the signs and symptoms of ear infections.
Remedies for Ear Infections
Warm Compresses to Relieve Ear Pain
Using warm compresses is a great way of dealing with the pain and inflammation caused by infections in the ear. Dip a clean cloth in a bowl of warm water and then remove and wring out the water properly. Press the cloth against the swollen and inflamed ear. Once the cloth is cold again, repeat the above mentioned steps again. Pressing a warm bag filled with salt or a hot water bag against the ear also has the desired effect of reducing ear infection pain and swelling.
Use Garlic
In addition to warm compresses you can also use garlic to clear ear infection and reduce the inflammation. A natural antibiotic and antiseptic, garlic is an excellent home remedy for ear infections. Peel three to four cloves of garlic and heat it in linseed or mustard oil. Once the garlic cloves are fried, remove from heat and allow the oil to cool. Pour two to three drops of oil into the ears to lessen the pain and clear the infection.
Oils to Reduce Ear Infection
Using natural essential oils can also help in reducing ear infections and providing relief from the symptoms. In a bowl add a tablespoon of almond oil and then add two to three drops of essential oils like chamomile oil, eucalyptus oil and lavender oil. Stir and heat the solution till it is slightly warm. Do not heat the oil too much or you might end up burning your ears. Now using a dropper pour in two to three drops of this healing oil into the affected ear. Another oil that is quite helpful in reducing ear infection is olive oil. Warm this oil and pour a few drops into your ear to relieve ear ache.
Home Treatment using Colloidal Silver
Using two to three drops of anti microbial colloidal silver is also known to relive the symptoms associated with ear infection. Lie down with your affected ear facing upwards and then add a few drops of colloidal silver to your ears. Place a cotton ball over the ears and wait for four to five minutes till the silver seeps down into your ears and relives the pain and swelling caused by ear infections.
Onion Juice for Ear Infections
The potent antibiotic properties make onion juice a great remedy for infections in the ear. Use a dropper to pour in two to three drops of onion juice into the ear that is infected.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Two to three drops of hydrogen peroxide can work wonders for ear infections. The acid helps in reducing ear wax and cures the symptoms of ear infection.
In addition to these cures, a healthy diet with sufficient intake of immune boosting Vitamin C foods and zinc intake can help in preventing recurrence of ear infections. Infants should be fed breast milk as this helps in building up their immune system and helps them ward off infections. Keeping the ears clean, reducing environmental pollutants like cigarette smoke and staying away from the factors that may allow them to catch a cold can also help a mother in safeguarding her child against ear infections.
In adults, keeping your ears dry especially while swimming and using antihistamines to treat ear infections that is caused by weak sinuses is recommended. People suffering from ear infections should ideally reduce the consumption of dairy products as they have been found to increase the infection. Avoid fatty hydrogenated foods and instead stick to a healthy diet to clear infections faster. Washing your hands regularly and not touching your ears and nose can help in preventing the spread of infection.
Even with all your valiant efforts of trying to reduce ear infections at home, it is possible that the symptoms might persist. In that case it is essential to contact an ENT specialist as soon as possible. Persistent symptoms of ear infections may lead to permanent hearing loss and other problems in both children as well as in adults
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