Earaches can involve one ear or both. The most common cause is an infection linked to a blocked ear canal, bacteria, or viruses.

According to Healthline, several symptoms can appear when someone has an earache:

• Pain in the ear

• Reduced hearing

• Fluid discharge from the ear

In children, these symptoms may be accompanied by:

• Fever

• A sensation of ear fullness

• Trouble sleeping

• Frequent ear pulling

• Persistent crying and fussiness

• Headache

• Loss of balance

• Loss of appetite

Some causes of earaches are:

• Ear infection (otitis)

This can occur in the outer, middle, or deepest parts of the ear canal.

• Outer ear infection

Often results from water getting trapped in the ear, or from bacteria in unclean pool water. It may also follow frequent cotton swab use, inserting fingers into the ear, or prolonged headphone use.

• Middle ear infection

This may follow a respiratory infection that allows fluid to collect behind the eardrum, creating a place for bacteria to grow.

• Labyrinthitis

Ear pain linked to a bacterial or viral infection of the respiratory tract.

To ease discomfort, you may take acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen. If pain relievers are not available, you can try the following alternatives, as noted by Medical News Today:

Use a Compress

Apply a warm or cold compress to the area behind the ear.

A warm compress (heating pad) can lessen inflammation and ear pain. You can place it on the neck or throat.

A cold compress (ice pack) can also reduce ear pain. Hold it beneath the ear for 20 minutes.

Gentle Massage

Lightly massaging the jaw and tooth area may relieve muscle tension in the head. Use gentle circular motions to help promote fluid drainage from the ear.

Eat Garlic

Chewing raw garlic may help improve earaches. Garlic contains antibiotic and antimicrobial properties that can keep infections from getting worse.

Chew Gums

This can relax tense muscles around the ear. Loosening these muscles may help reduce pain.

When you have an earache, consider wearing earplugs in the shower to keep water out of the ear, which could aggravate the problem.

If symptoms do not improve within 24 to 48 hours and you develop a high fever over 38 degrees, seek medical care promptly to prevent complications.

Looking for more information about health tips and tricks, first aid, and other home remedies? Click here!