The human ear is a sensitive organ, and even the slightest change in pressure or temperature affects it. The ear can be divided into three parts
● Outer Ear
● Middle Ear
● Inner Ear
The outer ear comprises the pinna, the auricle (the visible portion), and the external auditory canal. The pinna serves as a sound funnel to focus sounds into the auditory canal. The auditory canal leads to a series of small bones in the middle ear called ossicles that transmit sound from the eardrum to the inner ear.
Ear Infections
The most common reason for ear infections is fluid buildup in the middle ear. These can be caused by an upper respiratory disease, which causes the Eustachian tube (the small opening between your throat and ear) to swell and close off, trapping fluid behind it that puts pressure on the eardrum.
Also known as acute otitis media, this type of ear infection usually clears up within 2-3 days with no treatment at all. However, some cases may take more time than this.
If you’ve ever had an ear infection, you’re well aware of how unpleasant it can be. Adults and children suffer from earaches, which are simple to treat if you know what to do.
Home Remedies for Ear Infection
For most people, the idea of home remedies for ear infections is a bit strange. The truth is that there are many natural ways to fight infection and remove toxins from the body. While these methods usually don’t work as quickly as taking an antibiotic, they do have some pretty excellent benefits.
Don’t let your next bout with an ear infection keep you in pain any longer than necessary! Try out some of these mentioned home remedies for ear infections and get relief fast!
Neck Exercises
Ear infections can produce pressure in the ear canal, which can be relieved by neck exercises that rotate the neck. Here is how to perform neck-rotation activities:
1. Straighten up and sit or stand up.
2. Make sure your channel is parallel to your right shoulder by rotating it to the right. Hold the position for five to ten seconds.
3. Carry on with the left side of the exercise.
4. Raise your shoulders upward as if you’re reaching for your earlobes. Hold the position for five to ten seconds.
5. Continually perform these exercises throughout the day.
Cold or Warm Compresses
Warm and cold compresses can help ease the pain of an ear infection. For an uncomplicated ear infection cure, especially for toddlers, place a hot pad or a cold washcloth on the ear for 10 to 15 minutes, or alternate between the two.
Vitamin D
Although Vitamin D appears to have nothing to do with ear infections, it is recognized to help your immune system. Ear infections are less likely to present in those with a healthy immune system. According to a 2017 study published in Acta Paediatrica, boosting serum vitamin D levels through food, supplementation, and direct sunlight may lessen the incidence of ear infections.
Garlic oil
Garlic oil ear drops are richly packed with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. They can be given to the ear canal to help destroy bacteria or viruses causing an ear infection. You may also prepare your own garlic oil ear drops by soaking crushed garlic cloves in warm olive oil.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can help keep your ears clean and keep dirt and bacteria from your middle ear. It’s very beneficial in preventing swimmer’s ears. Apply a few drops of H2O2 to the ear canal, taking care not to get any into the ear itself.
Changing Sleeping Positions
If you sleep on your side, try laying down with your affected ear facing up rather than down into the pillow if you’re a side sleeper. Sleeping with your affected ear propped up on a pillow may aggravate the problem. Suggesting this to children who might not think of it on their own can help them sleep better at night.
Conclusion
Although home remedies are excellent and proven effective in curing ear infections, some remedies may not be adapted to use before an expert’s advice. If you have any queries or confusion about your nose, throat, or ear, visit MARHAM.PK to consult the best ENT Specialists for your checkup, advice, and treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1- Which ear drops are suitable for ear infections?
Naturopathic ear drops are usually good to treat ear infections since they may contain a lot of herbs, garlic, tea tree oil, and other essential oils in it.
2- Can ear infections lead to death?
It is a rare event, but if the ear infections pass to the brain, it may lead to Meningitis, a fatal condition. Other serious complications may include permanent deafness.
3- Are ear infections contagious?
Since bacterias and viruses cause ear infections, these may be contagious and spread from one person to another.
4- When should I be concerned about an ear infection?
If the symptoms of ear infections do not go away within two to three hours or come with a high fever, you may contact your doctor immediately.
