Guide To Ear Infection Diagnosis And Treatment

Ear Drops

Ear drops can be used for ear infections in both children and adults. When adults get ear infections, they tend to be more serious than those that appear in children. However, adults are also less likely to develop ear infections than children. Some ear drops are available over-the-counter, so patients don't have to see a doctor and obtain a prescription. These can treat mild cases of swimmer's ear, which are more likely to affect children than adults.

Ear specialists also recommend creating ear drops at home. A popular mixture includes using equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Putting a few drops of this into the ears helps dry the ear canal, which is vital when an ear infection is caused by wetness in the middle ear. If individuals have artificial ear tubes, any permanent eardrum injuries, or have undergone certain surgeries to the ears, they shouldn't use these drops. Patients should always consult a doctor if they are uncertain whether or not they should use ear drops to treat their ear infection.

Gargle With Saltwater

One natural remedy for an ear infection is to gargle with saltwater. The ears, nose, and throat are all connected more intricately than most individuals realize. This is why there are specific doctors called ENTs who specialize specifically in the ears, nose, and throat. Some ear pain might not be due to an infection in the ear itself, but may actually be related to soreness in the throat. If individuals have a sore throat in addition to their ear pain, they might be able to ease symptoms by gargling with warm saltwater.

Experts recommend mixing eight ounces of warm water with one teaspoon of salt for gargling, though they note this water should never be swallowed. One important thing to know is children under six years old don't tend to know how to gargle properly. Because of this, parents shouldn't use a saltwater gargle technique with them, as they're more likely to swallow or aspirate the solution.