Finding relief is a priority when you or your child are experiencing ear pain. Although there is a chance the pain could go away on its own, immediate relief can improve sleep and mood. While some cases may require you to seek medical attention, at-home ear pain relief can be beneficial. For same-day ear infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Castle Rock today!
Causes & Symptoms of Ear Pain
Ear infections are the most common cause of ear pain, particularly in children. There are other possibilities to be aware of, including a change in air pressure, wax build-up, injury, or the presence of an object inside the ear canal.
Parents can identify symptoms of ear pain in young children can from:
- Tugging on ears
- Irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Drainage from ear
- Balance issues
- Trouble hearing
- Fever
- Vomiting
Ignoring the symptoms of ear pain may result in worsening pain, so it is best to start by treating them. However, diagnosis is not always needed immediately.
When to Seek Diagnosis
If you or your child have been experiencing ear pain for a few days or more without much relief, it is time to seek medical care. While an ear infection may go away independently, a longer-lasting infection may require antibiotics. A doctor or nurse practitioner can identify an ear infection quickly, and the medication will improve ear pain within a few days.
Treatment for Ear Pain
If the ear pain experienced is from an ear infection, the prescribed antibiotic will treat the infection. However, antibiotics do not address the pain immediately. For any pain that comes with an ear infection, acetaminophen or ibuprofen will assist in reducing pain.
Another option includes holding a warm washcloth or heat pack to the affected ear. Sleeping at an incline can also be beneficial for nighttime pain.
It is also essential to know that over-the-counter ear drops are available but can cause further problems for a burst eardrum. If you fear that you may have a burst eardrum, seek medical attention. Drainage is a sign of a burst eardrum, so avoid clearing it out with a cotton swab or other foreign object. Nothing should enter your ear canal, especially when it is already in pain.
If you need to clean out your ear during this time, using hydrogen peroxide can help remove excess moisture. Be sure to use skin-safe peroxide and a dropper to drop a few drops into the canal. Peroxide is great for cleaning out earwax and drainage from your ear canal. With the removal of excess wax, you may notice an improvement in the pain.
Treatment Options at Urgent Care
Urgent care can help you with your ear pain treatment by diagnosing the cause of the pain and prescribing the necessary medication. If the ear pain is caused by something other than an ear infection, the medical team can help determine the required course of action for healing. For quick treatment and care, visit AFC Urgent Care Castle Rock for your ear pain.
