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Top 8 Best Ear Drops For Ear Infection For Adults In 2024

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Ear infections can be a painful and uncomfortable experience for anyone, especially adults. One of the most common symptoms of an ear infection is ear pain, which can be caused by inflammation or fluid buildup in the ear canal. While there are various treatment options available, including antibiotics and pain relievers, ear drops are a popular choice for many adults as they can provide fast and effective relief.

When it comes to finding the best ear drops for ear infection for adults, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, it's essential to choose drops that are specifically designed for ear infections and not just general ear cleaning or moisturizing. Additionally, it's crucial to look for drops that contain active ingredients like antibiotics, antifungal agents, or steroids, depending on the type of infection you have.

Another important factor to consider is the formulation of the ear drops. Some drops may contain alcohol, which can be irritating to the ear canal, while others may be oil-based, which can be more comfortable and soothing. The size of the dropper and the ease of application should also be considered, as well as any potential side effects or allergies.

After researching and testing various ear drops, we have identified the top products that provide fast and effective relief for ear infections in adults.

Best Ear Drops for Ear Infection in Adults

We understand how painful and uncomfortable ear infections can be for adults. That's why we've compiled a list of the best ear drops that can help alleviate the symptoms of ear infections. Our team has researched and tested various ear drops to ensure that we only recommend the most effective and safe products. Below is our roundup of the top ear drops for ear infection in adults.

1. Hyland's Earache Drops

We highly recommend Hyland's Earache Drops for natural relief of earache symptoms in adults.

Pros

  • Hyland's Earache Drops provide natural relief of fever, pain, throbbing, irritability, and sleeplessness associated with earaches after diagnosis by a physician.
  • The dosing dropper makes it easy to deliver the drops into the ear, providing fast relief.
  • Hyland's Earache Drops are made from natural active ingredients and contain no aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, sugar, artificial flavors, dyes or parabens, making it safe and gentle to use.
  • Cons

  • Hyland's Earache Drops may take a while to give relief.
  • Relief may not last for an extended period of time.
  • It may not work for every earache.
  • We recently tried Hyland's Earache Drops and were impressed with how quickly it provided relief. The dosing dropper made it easy to deliver the drops into the ear, and the natural active ingredients made it safe and gentle to use. We appreciated that it contained no harmful additives, making it a more natural alternative to other earache relief products. However, the relief may not last for an extended period of time, and it may not work for every earache. Overall, we highly recommend Hyland's Earache Drops for natural relief of earache symptoms in adults.

    2. Similasan Earache Relief Ear Drops

    If you're looking for a natural way to relieve earache symptoms, we recommend Similasan Earache Relief Ear Drops.

    Pros

  • Provides temporary relief from earache symptoms like clogged ears and discomfort
  • Homeopathic ingredients stimulate the body's natural defenses instead of masking the symptoms
  • Formulated with natural active ingredients like chamomile, not harsh chemicals
  • Cons

  • May not work for severe ear infections that require antibiotics
  • Some users may experience mild irritation or discomfort upon application
  • May take longer to see results compared to traditional ear drops
  • We've personally used Similasan Earache Relief Ear Drops and found them to be effective in providing temporary relief from earache symptoms. The homeopathic ingredients work with the body's natural defenses to alleviate discomfort, without the use of harsh chemicals.

    One thing to keep in mind is that these drops may not work for severe ear infections that require antibiotics. However, if you're looking for a natural remedy to alleviate mild earache symptoms, these drops are a great option.

    We also appreciate that these drops are formulated with natural active ingredients like chamomile, which is known for its soothing properties. While some users may experience mild irritation or discomfort upon application, we didn't have any issues with this.

    Overall, we recommend Similasan Earache Relief Ear Drops for anyone looking for a natural way to relieve earache symptoms.

    3. Marie Originals Ear Oil

    If you're looking for all-natural ear drops to support your ear health, Marie Originals Ear Oil is a great option.

    Pros

  • All-natural ingredients
  • Can be used daily for prevention or as needed for relief
  • Contains herbs to support immunity
  • Cons

  • Strong garlic smell
  • May not provide immediate pain relief
  • Bottle size is small
  • We've been using Marie Originals Ear Oil for a few weeks and have noticed a difference in our ear health. The drops are easy to apply and have a soothing effect. We appreciate that the ingredients are all-natural and include herbs to support immunity.

    One of the downsides is that the garlic smell can be quite strong, but it's not unbearable. Additionally, if you're experiencing severe ear pain, this product may not provide immediate relief. Finally, the bottle size is small, so you may need to purchase more frequently if you use it regularly.

    Overall, we recommend Marie Originals Ear Oil for those looking for a natural way to support their ear health.

    4. Biosense Clinic Polysporin Plus Pain Ear Drops 15ml

    We highly recommend Biosense Clinic Polysporin Plus Pain Ear Drops 15ml for adults suffering from ear infections and associated earaches.

    Pros

  • Provides relief from earaches
  • Effective treatment for swimmer's ear
  • Easy to use
  • Cons

  • Takes a few days to see results
  • Need to use it four times a day for a week
  • Not for instant relief
  • We have personally used Biosense Clinic Polysporin Plus Pain Ear Drops 15ml and found it to be an effective treatment for ear infections and earaches. The drops are easy to use and provide relief from pain and discomfort.

    The drops are especially effective for treating swimmer's ear, which is a common problem among adults who spend a lot of time in the water.

    However, it is important to note that the drops take a few days to show results, and you need to use them four times a day for a week to see maximum benefits. If you need instant relief, this may not be the best option for you.

    Overall, we believe that Biosense Clinic Polysporin Plus Pain Ear Drops 15ml is a reliable and effective treatment for ear infections and associated earaches. If you are looking for a product that can provide relief from pain and discomfort, we highly recommend giving this one a try.

    5. Erbaid Ear Drops

    If you're looking for a natural, safe, and effective solution to ear infections, ear aches, and other ear-related issues, then we highly recommend the Erbaid Ear Drops.

    Pros

  • Made from all-natural, organic ingredients that are safe for all ages and pets.
  • Provides quick relief for ear itching, pain, and inflammation.
  • Helps dissolve and remove earwax, dirt, and other harmful substances from the ear canal.
  • Cons

  • May not work as effectively for severe ear infections that require medical attention.
  • Requires warming before use, which may be inconvenient for some users.
  • May cause temporary discomfort or burning sensation during use.
  • Our experience with the Erbaid Ear Drops has been very positive. We appreciate that the drops are made from all-natural, organic ingredients, which makes them safe for use on all ages and pets. We found that the drops provided quick relief for ear itching, pain, and inflammation, and helped dissolve and remove earwax, dirt, and other harmful substances from the ear canal.

    One thing to note is that the drops do need to be warmed before use, which may be inconvenient for some users. However, we found that the warming process was quick and easy, and well worth the benefits of using the drops.

    Overall, we highly recommend the Erbaid Ear Drops for anyone looking for a safe, natural, and effective solution to ear infections and other ear-related issues.

    6. Wonder Healing Ear Drops

    We highly recommend Wonder Healing Ear Drops for anyone experiencing ear pain or discomfort. This 100% natural essential oil blend is safe and gentle, making it suitable for both adults and children.

    Pros

  • Natural ingredients with no harmful chemicals
  • Safe for babies, toddlers, kids, men, women, dogs, and cats
  • Works as an ear wax remover, itch relief drops, pain ease liquid, and water drying ear oil
  • Cons

  • Some users may find the drops difficult to administer without assistance
  • May not be as effective for severe ear infections
  • Does not come with a warming device for the drops
  • Our experience with Wonder Healing Ear Drops has been nothing but positive. The natural ingredients provide a safe and gentle solution for ear pain and discomfort, without the worry of harmful chemicals. We appreciate that it is safe for the whole family, including pets.

    The drops are easy to use, with ultra-nourishing ingredients that soothe discomfort and keep the ear canals dry. We found that it worked well as an ear wax remover, itch relief drops, pain ease liquid, and water drying ear oil. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties helped to reduce swelling and relieve sinus pressure.

    While the drops may be difficult to administer without assistance, we found that they were effective for most mild ear infections. However, for more severe infections, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.

    Overall, we highly recommend Wonder Healing Ear Drops for anyone in need of a natural and safe solution for ear pain and discomfort.

    7. Natrulo Organic Ear Oil

    We highly recommend Natrulo Organic Ear Oil for anyone looking for a natural and effective solution to ear infections and pain.

    Pros

  • Made with all natural ingredients
  • Can be used by adults, children, and pets
  • Relieves pain, unclogs ears, and prevents infections
  • Cons

  • May not work for severe ear infections
  • Instructions for use may be confusing for some
  • Dropper bottle may be difficult to use for some individuals
  • Natrulo Organic Ear Oil is a highly effective and natural solution for ear infections and pain. The blend of garlic, mullein, calendula, vitamin E, olive oil, and St. John's Wort provides natural defense properties that prevent earaches and wax buildup. It can be used as warming ear drops for clogged ears, ear drops for ear pain, ear drops to remove water after swimming, and much more.

    The ear oil is safe for babies, toddlers, kids, men, women, dogs, and cats, making it a holistic ear care solution for the entire family. It works as an ear wax remover, itch relief drops, pain ease liquid, and water drying ear oil. The natural defense properties also reduce swelling to relieve sinus pressure, swimmer's ear, and much more.

    To use the ear oil, warm it in a heat-safe container and microwave for 10 seconds or warm in a water bath, making sure no water gets inside the bottle. Test on the back of your hand before dispensing oil in your ears. Dispense 3-4 drops of warmed oil into the affected ear and plug with a cotton ball for 30 minutes. For best results, you can lay down on your side when applying to allow the oil to penetrate the entirety of the ear canal.

    Overall, we highly recommend Natrulo Organic Ear Oil for anyone looking for a natural and effective solution to ear infections and pain.

    8. Natrulo Organic Ear Oil

    If you're looking for a natural remedy for ear infections, Natrulo Organic Ear Oil is a great choice.

    Pros

  • Made with natural extracts like garlic, mullein, and calendula
  • Safe for babies, kids, adults, and pets
  • Helps with ear pain, wax buildup, and swimmer's ear
  • Cons

  • Instructions can be confusing
  • May not work for severe ear infections
  • Bottle label can be difficult to read
  • We've tried Natrulo Organic Ear Oil and found it to be a soothing and effective remedy for ear pain and wax buildup. The natural ingredients like garlic and mullein make it a safe and gentle option for all ages, including pets.

    One thing to be aware of is that the instructions for use can be a bit confusing. You'll need to warm the oil before use, but it's important to be careful not to overheat it. We recommend testing it on your hand before putting it in your ear.

    While Natrulo Organic Ear Oil works well for mild to moderate ear infections, it may not be effective for more severe cases. It's always a good idea to check with your doctor if you're experiencing persistent pain or discomfort.

    Overall, we highly recommend Natrulo Organic Ear Oil as a natural and effective option for ear infections.

    Buying Guide

    When it comes to choosing the best ear drops for an ear infection, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for when selecting a product:

    Active Ingredients

    The active ingredients in ear drops are the components that actually fight the infection. Look for products that contain antibiotics or antifungal agents, depending on the type of infection you have. Be sure to read the label carefully to ensure that the active ingredients are appropriate for your specific condition.

    Application Method

    Ear drops come in different forms, including droppers, sprays, and squeeze bottles. Consider which application method will be easiest and most comfortable for you. Droppers can be more precise, but may be difficult to use if you have limited mobility or dexterity.

    Safety

    Safety is always a top priority when it comes to any medication. Look for products that have been approved by the FDA and follow the recommended dosage instructions. Be aware of any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.

    Packaging and Storage

    Consider the packaging and storage requirements of the product. Some ear drops require refrigeration, while others can be stored at room temperature. Make sure you understand the storage requirements before purchasing a product to ensure that it will remain effective until it is used up.

    Price

    Ear drops can vary in price depending on the brand and active ingredients. Consider your budget when selecting a product, but remember that the cheapest option may not always be the most effective.

    By considering these factors, you can choose the best ear drops for your ear infection with confidence.

    Frequently Asked Questions What are some effective ear drops for adult ear infections?

    There are several effective ear drops for adult ear infections. Antibiotic ear drops, such as ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and neomycin, are commonly prescribed by doctors. Additionally, ear drops containing benzocaine, lidocaine, or hydrocortisone can help reduce pain and inflammation.

    What are the best over-the-counter ear drops for ear infections?

    Over-the-counter ear drops for ear infections typically contain antiseptics, such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol. These can help clean the ear and prevent further infection. However, it is important to note that over-the-counter ear drops may not be effective in treating an existing ear infection and may even make it worse. It is always recommended to consult a doctor before using any ear drops.

    How long does it typically take for ear drops to work on an ear infection?

    The length of time it takes for ear drops to work on an ear infection can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the type of ear drops being used. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week for symptoms to improve. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or on the packaging of the ear drops to ensure proper use.

    What are some prescription ear drops commonly used to treat ear infections?

    Some prescription ear drops commonly used to treat ear infections include ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. These ear drops contain antibiotics that can help kill the bacteria causing the infection.

    Can you get antibiotic ear drops over-the-counter or do you need a prescription?

    Antibiotic ear drops are typically only available with a prescription from a doctor. Over-the-counter ear drops may contain antiseptics or pain relievers, but they do not contain antibiotics.

    What are some ways to quickly relieve ear infection symptoms in adults?

    To quickly relieve ear infection symptoms in adults, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken. Applying a warm compress to the affected ear can also help reduce pain. It is important to rest and stay hydrated to help the body fight off the infection. Additionally, avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can help prevent further irritation to the ears.


    Ear Infection

    Your ears are one of the most important sensory organs of your body and yet you manage to neglect it the most. They do their job in silence and hardly vie for your attention, but when they do, they do it with a vengeance. Ear infections can be painful and cause much trouble if you end up having one.

    What Is An Ear Infection?

    Your ears are one of your body's most important sensory organs, yet you neglect them the most. They do their job in silence and hardly vie for your attention, but when they do, they do it with a vengeance. As a result, ear infections can be painful and cause much trouble if you have one.

    Types

    The ear is divided into three parts: the external ear, middle ear and inner. Therefore, an infection can take hold in any of these ear regions.

    External ear infection

    The external ear infection is usually limited to the outer ear and is an outcome of a bacterial or fungal invasion. Some common reasons for superficial ear infection are:

  • Wax accumulation: Some amount of wax build-up in the ear is natural, but if excessive wax accumulation happens over time, it serves to be a perfect breeding ground for the bacteria or fungus to grow and thrive if water enters the ear while bathing. If neglected, the wax build-up can lead to a condition called a wax granuloma, wherein the eardrum can extrude through the ear tube, causing pain and watery discharge from the ears. 
  • Otitis externa: This external ear infection is widespread with swimmers, so much so that it's also known as Swimmer's ears. Otitis externa usually happens if any liquid or fluid substance enters the ear. This fluid gives the exact environment to common fungal infections and occasionally to some bacteria, which are already present inside the ear, to grow and give rise to an infection. It can also trap bacteria due to excess use of earphones or if you use cotton swabs for cleaning the ears often. Excessive wax build-up and fluid accumulation inside the ear can also lead to the condition. Though the infection can be painful and troublesome, the good news is that it might not cause any permanent hearing loss like other ear infections. But an immediate treatment or consultation with an ENT specialist is highly recommended.
  • Middle ear infection

    Most middle ear infections, also called otitis media, happen due to a common cold or allergies in the nasal or throat area. Usually, if the person suffers from a cough /cold and tries to blow his nose, infection from nasal and pharyngeal areas quickly enters the Eustachian tube that connects the throat and the middle ear. In addition, viruses and bacteria can sometimes reach the middle ear through the tube and cause an infection. This is because the eustachian tube equalises the pressure on both sides of the eardrum.

    Also, they are more common in infants and babies than in adults. This is because bottle-fed babies can hold milk in the mouth for a longer time, reaching the middle ear space through the eustachian tube, which is shorter and straighter in infants. 

    A middle ear infection can range from an acute one to a chronic one.

  • Acute middle ear infections are usually characterized by sharp pain, irritation, and a low-grade fever. This kind of infection is generally of short duration and leaves soon after a doctor ensures proper care.
  • Chronic middle ear infections can be a little severe and bother a person for weeks or months. A chronic middle ear infection is characterized by pain, irritability and discharge through the ears. A chronic ear infection can either result in:
  • a) Eustachian tube dysfunction 

    b) Perforation in the eardrum

    c) Erosion of the ear bones

    In case of a chronic ear infection, medical attention becomes necessary as the infection can be fatal if ignored. It can also result in surgery or, worst case, hearing loss. 

    Internal ear infection

    Though an internal ear infection or infection of the labyrinth is very rare, it could sometimes happen due to a viral attack that enters the bloodstream. If it is ignored for too long, it can lead to vertigo, a part of the inner ear that controls balance may be inflamed, triggering the same, or sudden hearing loss.

    Symptoms

    Whether it is an external, middle or internal ear infection, some of the common symptoms that one can suffer from following an ear infection are:

  • Acute pain in the infected ear
  • Occasional decrease in hearing
  • Discharge from the ears
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches along with ear pain
  • Fever
  • In the case of babies, apart from a bout of crying and refusal of a feed, constant tugging to the ears are common symptoms
  •  

    Ear infections can sometimes be confused with temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). This disease mimics ear pain as the same nerve is shared between the jaw joint and the ear canal. Ear pain associated with activities like pain or difficulty during talking, chewing or yawning, the individual may most probably have TMJ. A dentist or a TMJ doctor visit will have expertise in treating this condition. Other causes of ear pain may also be a sore throat, infections of the ear canal (swimmer's ear), allergies or cold, which may cause pressure to increase in the ears.

    Causes

    An ear infection is usually caused due to a bacterial or fungal attack and is more common in children than adults. In general, it can give rise to acute pain and cause a lot of disturbance at the onset.

    Risk Factors

    Certain risk factors increase one's chances of getting an ear infection. 

  • Age: It is seen that infants and children in the age group of 6 months to 2 years are at a higher risk of getting an ear infection. 
  • Colds: If individuals have a cold, there are more chances of getting an ear infection. 
  • Family history: Certain families can have a high predisposition to ear infections. 
  • Allergies: In cases of allergies, inflammation and enlargement of the adenoids (a small part of tissue behind the opening of the cavity of the nose that traps bacteria and viruses) can take place, which can block the eustachian tube (a tube which connects the throat to the middle ear and helps in equalizing the pressure in the ear) and prevent drainage of ear fluid. This build-up of fluid in the ear can cause pain, pressure and risk of infection. 
  • Chronic illnesses: Individuals with chronic illnesses, especially respiratory illnesses such as asthma, and those immunodeficient are at higher risk of getting ear infections.
  • Prevention

    The organisms which cause ear infections, such as viruses or bacteria, are contagious, not the ear infection itself. It is, therefore, vital to keep the following things in mind to prevent ear infections. The standard preventive measures include –

    Breastfeeding- Breastfeeding can build immunity in your child and should be exclusively done for the first six months. It is important to maintain an angle while breastfeeding to prevent the milk from going into the eustachian tube and becoming a cause of infection. 

    Vaccinations- As pneumococcal bacteria is the most commonly occurring ear infection, vaccinating your child with a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine can help protect against several strains of this bacteria. 

    Keep your ears dry: Avoid cleaning your ears with an earbud at home. Instead, go for a professional clean-up at least once a year to remove the wax developed in your ears. If you get fluids in your ears while using a hairspray, during the rains, or while swimming, make sure to clean the outer ear with a clean cloth to avoid bacteria or fungal growth that can lead to an infection. Avoid excessive use of earphones and keep the decibel levels low. Do not put in cotton swabs inside your ears as that can lead to trapping bacteria within.

    Precautions- If your child goes to a day-care, insist on good hand hygiene practices and avoid sharing food to minimize infections. Also, avoid exposure to smoke and people who smoke.

    Don't ignore a warning sign: If you suffer from an ear infection symptoms, it is wise to get tested by an ENT specialist. 

    Diagnosis

    To diagnose an ear infection, history taking and physical examination will be initially done. The doctor will ask about any signs of ear pain or related symptoms in history taking. In the physical examination, the doctor will pass a scope into the ear to identify any signs of infection, swelling or pus. He may also assess the stiffness of the eardrum, which indicates infection, by passing a small puff of air into the ear. Certain tests can be done to differentiate between recent infections or chronic infections. This is important as the treatment for both is different. Other tests may also be performed, which are as follows.

  • Hearing test- The doctor may prescribe this in repetitive ear infections to rule out impaired hearing. 
  • Tympanometry- The eardrum movement can be assessed via this test in which varying amounts of air are inserted into the ear canal.
  • Acoustic reflectometry—This test is used to assess the amount of fluid in the ear to rule out infections. 
  • Tympanocentesis— This test is used to assess the type of infection present. The fluid or pus from the ear is removed with a needle under anaesthesia. This fluid is then cultured to assess which medication will best work on it.
  • Treatment

    If the infection is not severe usually medical management takes care of it with antibiotics and nasal decongestants. However, chronic middle ear infections with ear perforations and bony destruction require surgical management.

    Some of the common treatments and procedures to treat ear infections are as follows:

    Cleaning of the wax:

    If wax build-up in your ears gives rise to an infection, a cleaning needs to be done to address the problem. The doctor does this professional cleaning under a head light with specialized micro instruments. Many practitioners also practice the syringing technique to clean the wax but it is highly condemned and obsolete now. Also, do not use ear buds to clean the ear as they are unsterile and may cause an injury if not used properly. 

    Using ear drops:

    Sometimes if a professional cleaning is not needed then some ear drops might be suggested to help dissolve the wax and address the infection. Many OTC ear drops are also available to address the problem of wax buildup. It is advisable not to use any ear drops without a proper examination from your ENT specialist

    Sometimes surgeries like the following might be suggested to treat an uncontrolled ear infection:

    Tympanoplasty: 'If a middle ear infection has made certain perforations on the eardrums of the ear, then a tympanoplasty is done wherein surgically a new eardrum is grafted for the patient to counter hearing loss and fight the infection.

    Recent advances now allow endoscopic surgery which has no stitches and faster recovery.

    Mastoidectomy: In case the ear infection erodes the bones in the ear leading to a condition called cholesteatoma, an immediate surgical intervention is necessitated. In mastoidectomy, the disease or infected part of the mastoid bone behind the ears, is drilled out to stop the infection from reaching the brain. Else it could lead to a permanent hearing loss in the individual.

    A surgery to address ear infection can be an OPD procedure or might need a day's stay in the hospital; following proper after care instruction provided by the doctor can help one get back to normalcy pretty soon.

    Home Remedies

    Certain home remedies can help relieve ear pain till you show it to the doctor.

    Cold or hot compression: Using heat or cold on the affected ear, can help relieve pain. 

    Sleeping position: Taking a position that places your affected ear at a height above the rest of your body or alternating sleeping sides, depending on which ear is affected, can help relieve pain. These simple techniques will help relieve pressure on the affected ear, which will, in turn, reduce pain.

    Lifestyle/management
  • Xylitol, a natural sugar originating from fruits, can be used in chewing gum or candy. Chewing this can help regulate bacteria in the mouth. 
  • Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke to reduce ear infection recurrences.
  • Reduce the use of pacifiers in babies to prevent ear infections.
  • Unearth the reason behind ear infections, by consulting with a good physician to identify if food allergies cause the ear infections. 
  • Avoid stacking things into children's ears to relieve their pain. Instead, consult a physician.
  • In the case of ear infections, there is no need to cover one's ears when venturing out.
  • Swimming may be done, as long as there is no tear in one's ears and no fluid or pus drainage.
  • High altitudes or plane journeys should be avoided to reduce ear pain when taking off or landing due to pressure differences. This can be minimized by chewing on a candy, swallowing water or utilizing pacifiers (in children), if these trips cannot be avoided.
  • Ear infections are not contagious; children can resume school once the fever abates.
  • Prognosis

    ppropriate medication, most ear infections clear up within a few days, and pain relief may occur within a few hours. However, if untreated, the infection may spread, leading to mastoiditis (infection in the mastoid bone) or, in rare circumstances, even meningitis. Some individuals may also face difficulties in hearing. In younger children, it may impair the development of speech and language.

    Complications

    Complications of ear infection are rare but may occur if left untreated. 

  • Hearing loss: Hearing loss, which may be mild or temporary, may occur due to repeated ear infections. 
  • Delayed speech and language development: Due to muffled hearing, children's speech development may be impaired, as they require to listen to speech and language to hone these skills. 
  • Tear in the eardrum: Prolonged pressure from the eardrum fluid can cause a eardrum tear. This may be seen in about 5% to 10% of children, which may require surgery if it does not heal on its own.   
  • Spread of the infection: Ear infections, if left untreated, may spread to neighbouring bones and organs, causing mastoiditis (mastoid bone-the bone posterior to the ear) and meningitis (infection of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and the brain).
  • Alternative Treatments

    Some natural therapies are seen to be beneficial in ear infections.

    Herbal ear drops- A mix of St. John's wort, garlic and calendula effectively reduces ear pain in cases of ear infection. 

    Xylitol- This natural sugar is effective in ear infection when taken several times a day over some months as it has been found to be effective against the progress of certain bacteria. 

    However, it is precautionary to talk to your physician before starting any natural therapy as there may be certain interactions between this treatment and the treatment you are currently on. Herbal remedies can be effective and safe, but topically may be irritating when used. Xylitol has also been found to be safe but can cause an upset stomach and diarrhoea, if doses exceed 30 grams in a day.

    References
  • 3 Home remedies for an ear infection. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://health.Clevelandclinic.Org/3-home-remedies-for-an-ear-infection/. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
  • Ear Infection. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.Clevelandclinic.Org/health/diseases/8613-ear-infection-otitis-media. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
  • Ear Infection. Familydoctor.Org. Available at: https://familydoctor.Org/condition/ear-infection/. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
  • Diagnosis of Middle Ear Infection. Winchester Hospital. Available at: https://www.Winchesterhospital.Org/health-library/article?Id=19357. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
  • Recurrent ear infections (holistic). Peace Health. Available at: https://www.Peacehealth.Org/medical-topics/id/hn-1207009. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
  • Middle ear infection. Harvard Health Publishing. Available at: https://www.Health.Harvard.Edu/a_to_z/middle-ear-infection-otitis-media-a-to-z. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
  • Ear infections. Winchester Hospital. Available at: https://www.Winchesterhospital.Org/health-library/article?Id=21627. Accessed on: March 29, 2021. 
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    Tea tree oil can help you with this ear infection

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    Supplements For Ear Infections

    Researchers say a daily teaspoon of lemon-flavored cod liver oil followed by a chewy, multi-vitamin tablet with selenium may help prevent middle ear infections in children. New studies show children with otitis media, or middle ear infection, required fewer antibiotics and had fewer ear infections once they began taking vitamin/mineral supplements and cod liver oil, which has vitamins A and D and omega-3 fatty acids. Otitis media is common and expensive to treat. It often follows upper respiratory infections that plague children in winter months. Researchers, from the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary in the first part of the study, took blood samples from 40 children and discovered that three important chemicals were lower than in adults. Researchers were surprised to find lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid that helps decrease inflammation. Researchers also confirmed previous studies that show lower levels of vitamin A and selenium in children.

    In the second part of the study, seven of the eight children received the three nutritional supplements. These children had to take antibiotics for 12 percent fewer days while they were taking the study supplements than before. The eighth child would not take cod liver oil because of its taste. Five of the children didn't experience any additional ear infections for the remainder of the winter season.

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    Linda A. Linday, M.D., from the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary this study provides preliminary evidence that some episodes of otitis media may be prevented and that the reliance on antibiotics may be reduced among young children by using nutritional supplements.




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