Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Safe home care for ear infection: pain relief, warm compress and what not to put in the ear.
Home care can ease discomfort while an ear infection runs its course. It does not replace a doctor's assessment.
Safe measures
Do not do
Watchful waiting
Doctors sometimes wait 48 to 72 hours before using antibiotics in mild cases in older children. Pain relief is used meanwhile, with a clear plan to return if no improvement.
See a doctor if a baby under 6 months has fever, pain lasts beyond 2 days, discharge appears, or there is swelling behind the ear.
When to get help
See a doctor or ENT clinic if ear pain, discharge or hearing change does not settle in a couple of days, if infections keep coming back, or if you are unsure about any medicine or drop. Early assessment protects hearing and helps avoid unnecessary treatment.
Remember
Simple pain relief and comfort are safe. Anything placed in the ear is not.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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