Effective Earache Treatments for Adults: Causes & Relief

Earaches in adults can have a number of underlying causes. The most effective treatment for an earache will depend on its cause and severity.

Hydrogen Peroxide

• Hydrogen peroxide is a popular home remedy for mild earaches that are caused by water trapped inside the ear.

Analgesics

• Over-the-counter pain medication, including NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen, can help to relieve earaches. A doctor may prescribe stronger pain medicines, including narcotics, for a very severe earache.

Antibiotics

• Ear infections are a common cause of earaches in adults. Bacterial ear infections are usually treated with antibiotics.

Garlic Oil

• Herbal preparations containing garlic are often used as natural remedies for earaches caused by irritation or early-stage infection.

Decongestants

• Earaches caused by colds, flu, allergies or upper respiratory infections can be treated successfully using over-the-counter decongestants.