Ear infections can affect many areas in the ear like the ear canal, the eardrum and the middle ear. It may be difficult to diagnose an ear infection on its early stages since this condition have symptoms of very minimal pain that may be dismissed. But as the ear infection progresses, there may be persistent ear ache or pain which radiates in the middle of the ear. There may be or may not be any discharge but fever is usually present which lasts until the infection subsides.
Only a medical specialist called an ENT (ear, nose and throat) can effectively diagnose an ear infection plus prescribe the most efficient treatment for this condition. A specialist may prescribe antibiotics to take care of the infection plus remedies to alleviate fever and pain. Symptoms of ear infections will finally subside after the infection itself is contained and treated.
Here are some of the most common treatments that can help manage symptoms of ear infection:
1. There is an irritating pain, ringing and pressure felt on the ears while antibiotic therapy takes into effect. Avoid activities that can aggravate this condition further like swimming, scuba diving, coughing excessively, sneezing and even lifting heavy objects which can affect the noticeable ringing in the ears.
2. Pain may be reduced by taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen; these medications are available over-the-counter. Take these medications on a full meal to reduce gastric side effects.
3. Ringing in the ears may be reduced by using white noise machines, listening to a low volume radio or even turning on an electric fan. The low, white noise can mask the irritating ringing that you may hear. These audible sounds may be eliminated once the infection subsides but when ringing in the ear persists, consult your doctor immediately.
4. Take a rest. If possible, take time off work to allow the body to rest and recuperate while you medicate for an infection.
5. Drink a lot of liquids like water, soup and fruits. When the body is well hydrated, fever is reduced immediately as well as allows the tissues and cells to rejuvenate.
6. Avoid picking the inner ear to ease pain and reduce ringing, just follow your doctor’s prescription medication and follow up consultation. Be skeptical about any promising all-in-one cure for ear infections and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Some of these cures may have ingredients that are not tested for safety and may also worsen your condition.
7. Never place anything in the ear, ear drops or herbal tinctures without consulting your doctor.
Follow your doctor’s prescription closely and never self medicate. Follow up after a week to assess further treatment or to discontinue any medication. Ear infections must be treated right away or it may lead to severe complications like tinnitus, persistent ringing in the ears and may even lead to hearing loss. Take care of your ears to prevent ear infections as well as keep healthy to resist any type of infection.