An earache is a common condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the ear. The cause is often inflammation, infection, or blockages inside the ear canal. It can happen in any part of the ear, including the outer, middle, or inner ear. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Four ways to stop an earache quickly are:
- Antibiotics: If the cause is a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as amoxicillin (Amoxil) to eliminate the infection.
- Ear drops: Prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops such as ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal) can effectively relieve pain and address specific causes of earaches, such as earwax buildup or swimmer’s ear. You can also use garlic oil ear drops.
- OTC medication: Various OTC earache relief products, such as numbing agents or earache drops, can temporarily relieve ear pain.
- Home remedies: Several home remedies may help soothe earache discomfort. These include applying warm or cold compresses to the affected ear or using garlic oil ear drops.
While these options may provide fast relief from an earache, consider talking with a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause.
Medical treatment options
These options for earaches offer effective relief, although the time it takes for them to work can vary depending on the underlying cause and your response to the treatment.
Common medical treatments for an earache include:
- OTC pain relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) can help soothe earache discomfort by reducing pain and inflammation. These medications typically start improving symptoms within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. But the length of relief may vary.
- Prescription antibiotics: A doctor may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is the cause of your earache. The time it takes for antibiotics to work can vary depending on the specific medication and the severity of the infection. However, you may notice some improvement within a few days of starting the antibiotics.
- Prescription ear drops: Prescription ear drops can effectively treat specific causes of earaches, such as otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) or excessive earwax. The time it takes for ear drops to work can vary. Some ear drops may provide immediate relief, while others may take a few days or longer to alleviate symptoms.
Antibiotics
Commonly prescribed antibiotics to relieve an earache include:
Amoxicillin (Amoxil)
This antibiotic belongs to a group of medications called penicillins. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria responsible for your ear infection.
While amoxicillin (Amoxil) is generally well-tolerated, some common side effects include:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
This antibiotic belongs to a class of medications called fluoroquinolones. It works by slowing or stopping bacterial DNA synthesis and growth.
Doctors usually reserve ciprofloxacin (Cipro) for cases where other treatments are ineffective or for specific bacterial strains.
Common side effects include:
- nausea
- diarrhea
Ear drops
Healthcare professionals often prescribe ear drops to relieve an earache, including:
Hydrocortisone (Cortisporin)
These ear drops belong to a class of medications called corticosteroids, and they may help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with earaches.
Hydrocortisone (Cortisporin) works by suppressing the immune response and reducing swelling in the ear canal.
Common side effects include:
- temporary stinging or burning sensation
- ear itching
- allergic reactions
Ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal)
Ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal) belongs to a class of medications called fluoroquinolones, and it works by inhibiting bacterial growth in the ear canal.
Common side effects include:
- temporary ear discomfort or pain
- ear itching
- change in taste
OTC options
The following OTC options can help relieve an earache:
Carbamide peroxide (Debrox)
Earwax buildup can cause earaches, and OTC earwax removal drops can help soften and facilitate the removal of excess wax.
Carbamide peroxide (Debrox) belongs to a kind of medication called cerumenolytics. It helps break down and loosen earwax.
Common side effects include temporary discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the ear after application.
Ibuprofen (Advil)
This is a pain reliever belonging to a group of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ibuprofen (Advil) reduces pain, inflammation, and fever that may occur with earaches.
Common side effects include:
- stomach upset
- indigestion
- heartburn
- nausea
If you need help covering the cost of medications, the free Optum Perks Discount Card could help you save up to 80% on prescription drugs. Follow the links on drug names for savings on that medication, or search for a specific drug here.
