Home Remedies for Ear Infections in Toddlers

Ear infections in toddlers can actually make you worry and keep the affected child in a lot of trouble. When you have a child with earache, especially because of ear infection, you would definitely like to make it go away completely. It must be mentioned that ear infections are the second most common illness of childhood times, behind colds.

It is very much obvious to expect a prescription for an antibiotic by your pediatrician in case of ear infections in toddlers. However, we must also mention that not every ear infections require antibiotics to get better. In fact, more than half of kids start feeling better in a day or two with or without antibiotics for the ear infection.

However, as a parent you will not be able to wait for the ear infection to go away on it’s own. So, you definitely would consult with your child’s doctor and take the effective treatments, and it in fact is for the best. Still, if you want to try out some of the home remedies for ear infections in toddlers, then this is the post you need to read.

Below are some of the home remedies for ear infections in toddlers.

1. “Wait and Watch” Approach:

   As per The American Academy of Pediatrics, a “wait and watch” approach is a better choice than prescribing antibiotics or any remedies in case of low-risk children.

   However, the guidelines may vary depending on your child’s age, severity of symptoms in ear infections and in case the infection is in one or both ears.

   We would mention that a wait and watch approach for ear infections in toddlers is recommended in case of the following things:

   • If your child is above 6 months and has pain in one ear and fever less than 102 degrees.
   • If your child is above two years has pain in both ears and fever less than 102 degrees.
   • In case the pain seems to be reducing and none of the other warning factors are seen.

2. Garlic Oil:

   One of the most effective home remedies for ear infections in toddlers is garlic oil. Studies have shown that garlic is anti-inflammatory and relieves pain and also can fight an ear infection, whether it is a viral or a bacterial ear infection.

   At the first sign of pain in ear infection, place a drop of garlic oil in to your child’s ears 3-4 times in a day. Keep a note, since garlic can be irritating, do not try to make it yourself, purchase it from the health food stores.

3. Onion Earmuffs:

   Another effective home remedy for ear infections in toddlers could be onion earmuffs. This can help ease pain and the antimicrobial properties can heal the ear infection.

   Simply slice one onion in half and then either microwave or simmer it in half an inch of water until it becomes soft. Then, wrap the onion in a clean cloth and hold it up to your baby’s ear for as long as he or she will tolerate it. However, be very sure to feel the onion first so as to make sure it is not too hot.

4. Humidifier:

   Running a humidifier can aid to counteract the dry indoor air, reduce swelling, moisten the membranes and thin the mucus found in the Eustachian tubes.

5. Acupressure and Essential Oils Can Be Used For Treating Ear Infections In Toddlers:

   Acupressure and essential oils can also be used for treating ear infections in toddlers naturally. Lavender essential oil reduces inflammation and when it is used along with acupressure, it can help to relieve ear infections. The acupressure points are located in front of and behind the ear and in the space between the thumb and index finger on the hand.

6. Vitamin C:

   One more useful home remedy for ear infections in toddlers could be vitamin C supplement. An oral supplement of vitamin C can reduce swelling in the ears. However, it is important for you to ask your child’s doctor about the dosage, as excess of it can cause diarrhea.

7. Elderberry Syrup:

   Elderberry syrup can be a beneficial home remedy in getting rid of illnesses and infections. It has naturally antiviral properties that may help in speedy recovery from ear infection. Moreover, it is also an easy remedy to get the kids to take, as it is delicious.

8. Warm Compress:

   By using warm compress, the pain of ear infections can be reduced. You can try a hot water bottle, a rice heating pack and a warm, wet wash cloth for the warm compress. In case you are using a wash cloth, try adding some soothing dried chamomile and rosemary herb to the water for an extra boost and also change the wash cloth frequently so as to keep it warm.

9. Lots of Fluids and Broth:

   Just like with an illness or an infection, it is necessary to keep the body hydrated and nutritionally supported; homemade bone broth can be an easy remedy to accomplish for treating ear infection.

10. Elevate The Bed To Treat Ear Infections:

    Prop up your baby’s head with pillows so as to allow the fluid to drain down. So elevating the bed can actually be a natural remedy for ear infections in toddlers.

Below are some of the things you need to know about when your child requires medical care for ear infection:

• If the child has dizziness or increasing pain or hearing loss.
• In case your child has a fever above 102 degrees.
• In case an object is lodged in the ear.
• If your child experiences any swelling, redness, or loss of movement around the sore ear.
• Medical care is essential if you suspect that the eardrum has burst.
• In case symptoms do not reduce within 48 hours, medical care is essential.

Although a lot of ear infections cannot be prevented, there are few steps you can take so as to reduce your baby’s risk of getting the infection:

• Make sure you are breastfeeding your baby until 12 months if possible. Antibodies present in your milk can protect your child from ear infections and a host of several other medical conditions.
• Protect your child from exposure to secondhand smoke, as it can make ear infections more severe and more frequent.
• If you bottle-feed your child then hold the baby in a semi-upright position so formula doesn’t flow back in to the Eustachian tubes. Make a note to avoid bottle propping for the same reason.
• Maintain a healthy environment. When possible, do avoid exposing your child to situations or environments where cold and flu are abound. In case you or someone in your home is sick, wash your hands often and keep the germs away from your baby.
• Ask your baby’s pediatrician if flu shots and pneumococcal vaccines are appropriate.