Ear infections occur when canals and tubes inside the ear become inflamed, causing slight to severe ear pain and other symptoms such as discharge, temporary loss of hearing and vertigo. Ear infections range in severity depending on where they develop in the ear. The most common and least severe kind of ear infections take place in the outer ear and are usually caused by bacteria in the ear canal. Middle and inner ear infections are more severe and typically develop from upper respiratory infections. Thankfully, ear infections typically clear up quickly if treated promptly and effectively.

Initial Treatment

Unless experiencing severe pain or high fever, eight out of 10 mild ear infections will go away within a few days with immediate at-home treatment. However, regardless of symptoms, seek immediate medical attention for infants with ear infections. First and foremost, rest for a few days to help the body combat infection. Reduce swelling and relieve ear pain with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Motrin or acetaminophen such as Tylenol. Ear drops, whether over-the-counter or physician-prescribed, can provide targeted relief. Also, try applying heat to the ear with a heating pad or wash cloth soaked in warm water to alleviate pain further. Typically, decongestants, antihistamines and other cold medicines are not effective against ear infections.

Antibiotics

If symptoms persist or worsen after initial treatment, antibiotics may be necessary to treat a bacterial infection. Consult a doctor to receive a prescribed treatment for your ear infection. If you are allergic to penicillin, are taking birth control pills or other medications, or suffer from liver or kidney disease, talk to your doctor about the best form of ear infection antibiotic treatment that fits with these conditions. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic for ear infections is amoxicillin. Make sure to consume the entire amount of amoxicillin or prescribed antibiotic in the dosages recommended by your physicians to get rid of the entire infection and prevent infections from recurring.

Natural Remedies

An alternative to antibiotics, natural remedies can also help relieve symptoms of and heal ear infections. To help boost the immune system, take herbs such as Echinacea or goldenseal. Olive leaf and St. John's Wort have anti-viral properties that fight infection. Some essential oils can help relieve pain and eradicate bacteria. Before going to bed, add two drops or garlic oil warmed in the microwave and two drops of mullein oil to the ear, and then hold the liquid in place while sleeping with a loosely applied cotton ball. Or ease pain by making a healing poultice out of an onion and water. Chop half an onion, and then simmer in one-four cup of water. Remove the onions from heat once translucent. Once the poultice has cooled to warm, place simmered onions on top of cheesecloth or thin gauze. Then, hold the poultice-filled gauze over the infected ear for five minutes.

Chronic Infections

For recurring ear infections, surgical measures may be recommended for preventing chronic ear infections after traditional ear infection remedies have been exhausted. Physicians may suggest surgically inserting tubes into the ears to prevent ear infections. These tubes are usually in place for six months to one year. Some doctors may also recommend tonsil or adenoid removal to help prevent further infections from forming by clearing up ear, nasal and throat passages.

Source:

WebMD: Ear infections

Ear infections - home treatment

Natural Herbs Guide

Resource:

Drugs.com: Amoxicillin Information