Ear Infection Treatments: Traditional and Alternative

2005-08-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

It is important to note that if any type of ear infection is suspected, whether the inflicted be an infant, child, adolescent or adult, that a physician is consulted before starting any treatment plan. In addition, follow up appointments should be made until the infection has been completely dissipated.

Otitis Externa or Swimmer's Ear

If swimmer's ear is caught early on it may be successfully treated with a mild acid solution such as boric or acetic acid (vinegar). If the infection persists or was not caught in the early stages cleaning the ear with antibiotics may work, however, this method can only be used providing the eardrum is not perforated. If the ear canal is swollen shut, the physician may place a sponge or a wick in the ear canal before administering antibiotic eardrops as well as prescribing steroid eardrops to reduce the inflammation. It may be necessary for the physician to clean out the ear to remove pus and debris, and he may also run a culture to identify what type of bacteria or fungi that are causing the infection. In addition, oral antibiotics and pain medications may be prescribed, although, over the counter pain relievers should be enough to manage the pain. A warm washcloth or heating pad over the ear may also work for temporary pain relief. In extreme cases where the infection has spread to bones in the skull intravenous antibiotics and surgery may be necessary. The best treatment, however, is to never get an infection in the first place; focus on prevention.

Otitis Media or Middle Ear Infections

The traditional treatment of middle ear infections is oral antibiotics, acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain and fever, and analgesic eardrops. If the child has allergies the doctor may prescribe antihistamines and if the child has a cold he/she may prescribe decongestants. There are disputes over the effectiveness of antibiotics and its overuse. An alternative to traditional antibiotics is colloidal silver, a natural antibiotic that can be taken orally or used as an ear wash. In addition, a carotenoid complex of 20,000 IU daily will aid in controlling the infection for adults, and 1 teaspoon of cod liver oil for children. An alternative to the traditional approach for pain relief is to place a few drops of warm garlic oil or olive oil in the ear, then a drop or two of lobelia or mullein oil, and then place a cotton ball loosely in the ear. Also, Goldenseal extract and Echinacea are herbs that support immune function; however, a physician should be consulted before starting this alternative treatment option.

Chronic Middle Ear Infections

If middle ear infections become chronic, the treating physician may suggest the insertion of ventilation tubes in order to drain the opposing fluid down the Eustachian tubes and to prevent the build up of future fluid in the middle ear. Typically, as the child grows, the tubes will fall out and the eardrum will heal on it's own. If for some reason the tubes do not fall out on their own, the doctor will remove the tubes. Other surgical procedures that may be suggested by your physician are the removal of the adenoids or tonsils. Chronically infected and swollen adenoids or tonsils can cause the dysfunction of the Eustachian tubes. Adenoids are small organs located in the back of the throat, behind the sinuses. Both organs are thought to act as a defense against incoming bacteria and viruses. However, if they are constantly enlarged (hypertrophy) they may do more harm than good.

Chiropractic For Middle Ear Infections

Chiropractic adjustment is another option for parents to try before resulting to surgery. Several studies have shown the safety and efficacy of chiropractic treatments in children. "In one study of 46 children (age 5 and under) with otitis media, 93% of all episodes improved, 75% in ten days or less. In another study, five children with chronic recurrent otitis media all responded favorably to chiropractic care." Alternative Medicine - The Definitive Guide

For more information on eat infections visit www.vaxa.com/healthtip/wht-ear-infections.cfm

Dr. Stan Headley M.D.

Alternative Medicine & Wellness

Ear Infection Treatments: Traditional and Alternative