Otalgia or earache can occur for a multitude of reasons. The buildup of pressure in the eustachian tube is one of the top causes of earache. Usually the eustachian tube drains fluids out of the middle ear through the back of the throat. Sometimes a cold, allergy or sore throat can cause the eustachian tube to swell up and shut. Tonsillitis and sinus infections also result in earache, especially among children. Sometimes high altitudes or rapid change in altitude, as when flying, can cause earache.
Earache can be an indication of obstruction of the ear canal with a foreign object or earwax. It also may also indicate a perforated or broken eardrum, because of a blow to the head, infection in the inner ear, suction applied to the ear or the insertion of a foreign object into the ear. “Swimmer’s ear” is also a common ear infection. It is an infection of the outer ear structures and happens because water is trapped in the ear canal. Bacteria multiply in the ear canal, causing infection and irritation. In this case the treatment of earache requires treatment of the infection.
There are many homeopathic and herbal solutions traditionally used in the treatment of earache. Anecdotal evidence has suggested that these have a good effect. Belladonna, a homeopathic medicine is recommended for a throbbing earache, while Chamomilla is given to babies who are also teething. Some common herbal cures used in the treatment of earache are echinacea and goldenseal herbal combination formula. Echinacea and goldenseal are essentially antiviral and they stimulate the immune system.
Garlic, an antibacterial, and may be useful in the treatment of earache through helping to heal an ear infection. A few drops of garlic juice in sesame oil is heated and put into the ear to clear up any infection. Mullein oil is a traditional Native American cure which reduces swelling and inflammation. The oil is warmed to just above body temperature and one or two drops are put into the affected ear. It is important to remember that earaches could be an indication of more complicated problems. If persistent or accompanied by fever, a qualified doctor should be consulted. The treatment of earache, if persistent usually requires a prescribed antibiotic course and possibly eardrops.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Cheek implant infections...
By: giremi | 19-07-2008
My wife and I both had Gortex cheek implants approx. 1 1/2 yrs.ago. My right cheek became infected and had to be removed. My wife's right cheek became infected and had to be removed. After a period of six months or so, we had them replaced. This week, I had to have the left cheek implant removed due to infection. Is this the norm???
When putting vet prescribed antibiotics in a dogs ...
By: Chihuahua Addict | 20-04-2008
When putting vet prescribed antibiotics in a dogs ears, for and ear infection, what it the best way to do it, so that the dog won't struggle to get away?
Horse ear problems.
By: cedardonkey | 29-01-2008
My horse has a white plaque in her left ear only. What could it be caused from?
Q&A Powered by:
More from Mitamins Team
Natural Treatment of Headaches
By: Mitamins Team | 08/10/2008 | Wellness
This article concerns "primary" headaches, which refers to those that are not caused by a basic medical condition. Secondary headaches, the result of other conditions, could be a signal of serious problems. Any headache that is frequent, severe or followed by any other symptoms ought to be checked out by a physician. If you’re not sure whether your headaches necessitate a visit to the doctor, you should go just to be sure.
The Mediterranean Diet and Heart Disease
By: Mitamins Team | 07/10/2008 | Diseases and Conditions
"The Mediterranean Diet" has been found, through epidemiological studies showing particularly low incidence of heart disease in the Mediterranean Basin, to be effective in combating heart disease.
Break Free From Acne Breakouts: Zinc's Role in Acne Treatment
By: Mitamins Team | 25/09/2008 | Acne
Keep antibiotics as far away as possible. Instead, put your best face forward with some simple, yet effective, acne-resisting actions.
Natural Way to Relieve Depression
By: Mitamins Team | 23/09/2008 | Wellness
The treatment of depression must be holistic, and take into account both the root of the depression and its symptoms. There are conventional methods for the treatment of depression, and these can be complimented with natural treatments as well, outlined in this article.
Lower Your High Cholesterol Naturally
By: Mitamins Team | 19/09/2008 | Wellness
High cholesterol is something that everyone must look out for. Do you know exactly what high cholesterol is, and what can be done to control it?
Prostrate Problems and Remedies
By: Mitamins Team | 18/09/2008 | Wellness
A large number of men over the age of 50 have suffered prostate health problems. The prostate gland is as big as a chestnut and is located at the base of the bladder in front of the rectum. The prostate surrounds the urethra, which serves to dispense urine. Problems happen when the prostate enlarges or inflames,, resulting in the impairment of urination, causing intense pain.
Natural Remedy of Lupus
By: Mitamins Team | 17/09/2008 | Wellness
Lupus has many different combinations of symptoms. making the treatment for it relatively complex. This article will discuss some the natural treatments for lupus that are currently available.
The Unknown Eyesight Killer -- Smoking!
By: Mitamins Team | 19/08/2008 | Acne
As we all know, our eyesight becomes weaker as we grow older. But there is nothing we can do to stop the aging process. Therefore, we regard age as the biggest threat to eyesight. However, smoking is also a contributing factor to degenerative eyesight. Nutritional supplements and vitamins can help you to improve this situation.