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Earache

The ears are particularly sensitive organs in which many nerve endings are located. Even minor disturbances can therefore trigger ear pressure or ear pain. The complaints can be localized in the outer, middle or inner ear, persist continuously or occur in attacks. For example, the pain can be stabbing, tapping or dull and accompanied by other complaints (unpleasant ear pressure, dizziness, hearing problems, etc.). Very often, inflammation and infection is the reason for ear pain. Other possible causes are, for example, an occlusion of the ear canal as well as injuries.

Symptoms

    Redness and swelling around the outer ear.
    Fever
    Earache
    Jaw pain
    Sore throat
    Itching
    Ringing in the ears
    Vertigo

What To Expect

Earaches can occur on one or both sides and have a pressing or stabbing character. They are usually relatively severe and often do not subside even at night. Depending on the cause behind the ear pain, ear pain can be accompanied by various symptoms. Thus, dizziness, ringing in the ears, a foreign body sensation in the ear as well as hearing loss may occur. In the following, you will find more detailed information on the individual causes of ear pain and the symptoms that occur.

Made Worse By

Regardless of whether the auditory canal or middle ear are affected: Diseases of the auditory organ are extremely painful. Many discomforts in the external auditory canal can be avoided by simply cleaning the ears without cotton swabs. You don't even need them: ears have a self-cleaning process. So-called bathing wadding helps against summer bathing infections. It prevents water and pathogens from being washed into the ear canal when swimming. The risk of middle ear infections can be reduced if parents ensure that their children's noses are clear and avoid exposing them to cigarette smoke. Pacifiers and teats also have a reputation for promoting middle ear infections. Cigarette smoke and overheated rooms should be avoided.

How Common

In young children, the eustachian tube is shorter and wider than in adults and therefore more susceptible to inflammation. Acute otitis media is therefore one of the most common diseases in childhood up to about 6 years of age. The peak of illness is between the 6th and 18th month of life. Statistically, every second European child falls ill at least once during the first year of life, and by the age of 7, every child has experienced at least one acute middle ear infection. After that, otitis media becomes rarer, but can basically occur at any age.

Diagnosed By

If ear pain or slight pressure occurs in the ear as a result of a flight or a visit to the swimming pool, there is no need to see a doctor straight away. However, if the complaints persist or if other symptoms occur, a visit to the doctor is advisable. Especially in case of fever, hearing problems or dizziness. The same applies if secretion or blood leaks from the ear canal. Anyone who has pain in the ear after an accident or after a foreign body has entered the ear should also have the complaints clarified by an ear, nose and throat specialist.

Caution Seek professional advice for earache, especially in children.

Remedies that may help with Earache

Showing 4 out of 4
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Elderflower treatment for Earache

Elderflower has proven itself as a home remedy for earaches, as it has an anti-inflammatory effect and boosts the immune system.

Ailments this remedy may help with:
Instructions:
  1. Mix equal parts of each tincture.
  2. Take 1 tsp 3 times a day with water.
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Eucalyptus Inhalation for Earache

Earache occurs when the secretion cannot drain well, because then the ear is not sufficiently ventilated. Inhalation with eucalyptus oil can help here.

Ailments this remedy may help with:
Herbs used:
Instructions:
  1. Make a steam inhalation by infusing 15 g of herb.
  2. Or put 5-10 drops of essential oil in 750 ml water.
  3. Inhale for 10 minutes.
1

Lavender Oil for Earaches

The lavender oil unfolds its wonderful anti-inflammatory, soothing effect and quickly brings relief from a nasty earache and a stuck cold.

Ailments this remedy may help with:
Herbs used:
Instructions:
  1. Place 2 drops of essential oil on to cotton wool
  2. Plug into the ear.
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Garlic Essential Oil for Earache

Garlic has a pain-relieving effect. With its disinfectant and antibacterial effect, it can provide relief especially in case of a middle ear infection.

Ailments this remedy may help with:
Herbs used:
Instructions:
  1. Place 2 drops of garlic oil on to a cotton wool.
  2. Plug into the affected ear.
  3. Alternatively, crush a clove of garlic and soak it into 1 tsp of sunflower or olive oil for a day. Strain the oil and make sure to warm it up to body temperature. Place 2 drops of the oil on to a cotton wool and pug it into the affected ear.

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