Have you ever experienced ear pain due to cold weather? The pain can be distressing and even hinder your daily activities. It can be accompanied by a burning sensation that may develop gradually or suddenly. It can be caused due to congestion, middle ear infection, or sinus infection. However, the good news is that you can get relief with some home remedies if the pain is not severe.
Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Ear Pain
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is a simple yet effective remedy for ear pain. Boil a pot of water, lean over it, and cover your head with a towel to create a steam tent. Inhale the warm, moist air. This helps open up the Eustachian tubes, reducing pressure and pain. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus or tea tree oil to the water for added benefits.
Warm Compress
Another way to get relief is by applying a warm compress on your ears. All you need to do is soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it against the affected ear for about 15-20 minutes. The warmth can help alleviate pain and promote drainage of excess fluids from the ear.
Hydration
Most of us tend to drink less water in the cold weather. However, it is essential to stay hydrated as it helps keep mucus thin and promotes drainage. Drinking warm liquids like herbal teas or broth can be particularly soothing for ear pain.
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Nasal Saline Rinse
A nasal saline rinse can help clear mucus and reduce congestion. You can use a saline solution from the pharmacy or make one at home using distilled water and salt. Rinse your nasal passages with a saline nasal spray or a neti pot. This can indirectly relieve pressure on the ears.
Honey and Garlic Oil
A mixture of honey and garlic oil can be applied in a few drops to the affected ear. The natural antibacterial properties of garlic can help alleviate ear pain and fight off any potential ear infection.
Take Rest
It is crucial to get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal and recover. Moreover, getting adequate sleep can help your immune system combat the cold virus, which, in turn, can reduce the duration of ear pain.
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Ear Drops
Over-the-counter ear drops designed for earaches or wax removal can provide relief. These drops can help soften earwax, making it easier to drain and alleviate pain. However, consult your doctor before using any ear drops to avoid complications.
Avoid Inserting Objects
It's important not to insert objects like cotton swabs into your ears to remove wax or alleviate pain. Doing so can push wax further into the ear canal or damage delicate ear structures, leading to more severe problems.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most ear pain associated with a cold can be effectively managed with these remedies, there are situations where you should seek medical attention:
- Severe or prolonged ear pain
- High fever
- Drainage from the ear
- Hearing loss
- Ear pain in young children
[Disclaimer: This article contains content for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you experience complications due to ear pain.]
