The ear is a complex structure that consists of three sections: the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. A tiny tube, called the Eustachian tube, connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and nose. This is the tube that we open by yawning or swallowing. This is the place most of the infections take root.
Common Causes of ear infections:
- The middle ear infection (Otitis media) is the most common cause of ear infections.
- Ear infections are also caused by colds or flu.
- Allergies or irritants such as smoke or fumes also can be a cause.
- Infections that keep repeating often can also cause permanent hearing loss.
- Ear infections are also a result of Eustachio's tube not performing its job. Fluid accumulates in the middle ear and breeds bacteria.
- Sudden increases in air pressure (during descent in an airplane or on a mountain road) can both squeeze the floppy tube closed and create a relative vacuum in the ear.
- Drinking while lying on one's back can occlude the slit-like tube opening.
- The increased mucus and saliva during teething can also get in the way.
Symptoms of ear infections:
- A sudden sharp pain or a constant dull pain.
- Unclear hearing.
- Fever of 100 degrees or higher.
- Stuffy nose.
- Sore throat.
- Fullness in the ear.
- Pus or blood from the ear.
- Nausea or diarrhea.
Other Symptoms include:
- Tugging at ear.
- Bad temper.
- Restlessness.
- Lack of appetite.
- Discharge from nose or ear.
Prevention of ear infection:
- Remove irritants that could cause allergies such as dust, cleaning fluids, tobacco from your home.
- Clean your ears gently with a soft cloth regularly.
- Avoid flying if you can when you have a cold.
- Do not scuba dive when you have a cold.
- Cut down on the foods that you know could cause allergic reactions.
- Stand upright when drinking something and avoid drinking when you are lying down.
- Avoid using ear cleaning swabs deep in the ear.
Home remedies for ear infections
Listed below are some of the common home remedies for ear infections:
- Hold a warm compress to the ear. Inhaling steam also can help.
- Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat and help open blocked ears.
- Drink plenty of water or other clear liquids.
- Use pillows to raise the head when lying down. This helps drain the middle ear.
- People with allergies can get relief from over the counter antihistamines.
- Decongestant nasal sprays can be used to open the ears.
- Over the counter drugs like aspirin ibuprofen, or acetaminophen can help with pain.
If natural home remedies can't cure, call a doctor when:
- When there is trouble hearing.
- If an ear ache lasts for more than 2 days.
- If the temperature rises above 100 degrees.
- If you have frequent ear infections.
