The best treatment for an earache depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatment options for earaches include:
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve the pain associated with an earache.
- Antibiotics: If an ear infection is the cause of your earache, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection. Don’t stop taking the medication once your symptoms improve. It’s important that you finish your entire prescription to ensure that the infection will clear up completely.
- Ear drops: Antibiotic ear drops may be recommended to help clear an outer ear infection. If a buildup of wax is causing your ear pain, you may be given wax-softening eardrops. They may cause the wax to fall out on its own. Your doctor may also flush out the wax using a process called ear lavage, or they may use a suction device to remove the wax.
- Decongestants: If a blockage in the Eustachian tubes is contributing to your earache, your doctor may recommend a decongestant to help clear the blockage.
- Steroids: If your earache is due to inflammation, your doctor may prescribe a steroid medication to help reduce the inflammation.
- Treatment of underlying conditions: Your doctor will treat TMJ, sinus infections, and other causes of earaches directly to improve your ear pain.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to treat an earache. For example, if a foreign object is lodged in the ear, surgery may be required to remove it.
It’s important to see a doctor if you’re experiencing an earache so that the underlying cause can be properly diagnosed and treated. A doctor can help determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation.