Ear infections, particularly middle ear infections, are caused by swelling of the eustachian tubes. This swelling continues until the tub becomes blocked, trapping fluid and making a great habitat for germs to grow and flourish. Some ear infections may cause the eardrum to burst, and though scary this is not usually a cause for concern as it will heal on its own over time.
How do I know if I have an ear infection?
- Mild to severe ear pain
- Fever
- Thick, yellowish or bloody drainage from the ear
- Loss of Appetite
- Vomiting
- Grumpiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Trouble hearing
- Popping, ringing or fullness in the ear
- Problems with dizziness and balance
How can I prevent an ear infection?
Ear infections are often a secondary infection as the result of something else like a cold or the flu.
- Don’t smoke. Tobacco irritates the ear.
- Wash your hands often.
- Get your child immunized.
How can I treat an ear infection?
- Apply a warm compress to the ear. This will help soften up earwax and get fluids in the ear moving.
- Use diluted Tea Tree oil as eardrops. Use two or three drops with two tablespoons of colloidal silver and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Drop a few drops into the ear, wait a few minutes, then turn your head and let it drip back out.
- Use garlic juice or oil as an eardrop and put two or three drops into the ear at a time.
- Make an eardrop of crushed mango leaf juice. It will help to relieve pain.
