Remedies for Baby Earache
Babies get earaches for many reasons: trauma, irritants, colds, viruses, allergies and infections. If you suspect your baby has an ear infection, especially if he is younger than 6 months, your pediatrician will probably treat the ache with antibiotics to be on the safe side. But even if your baby is on antibiotics, he might still be in pain, which needs to be managed.
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Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers
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Oral acetaminophen and ibuprofen are two pain and fever reducers that can help relieve symptoms of baby earaches. Check the label or with your pediatrician to determine dosage needed for your baby's weight. Acetaminophen is given every four to six hours and ibuprofen is given every six to eight hours. Some pediatricians recommend alternating the the medicines for maximum effectiveness.
Ear Drops
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If oral medicines don't help remedy your baby's earache pain, you can try ear drops. One option is to try a few drops of warm (around the same temperature as you would use for baby's bath) olive or vegetable oil. Next, try over-the-counter ear drops, such as homeopathic Murine or Nutribiotic. If your child is still in a lot of pain, you can ask your pediatrician for a prescription ear drop that anesthetizes the ear more completely. Never use drops or oil if you can see pus or liquid draining out of your baby's ear.
Other Options
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Some environmental factors can also help your baby's earache or at least shorten its duration. Try to keep her head as upright as possible to assist with the draining of fluid. You can also use a warm compress on the ear and make sure she drinks plenty of fluids. The swallowing action from drinking can help your baby's Eustachian tubes open and drain. Plus, the fluids can keep her from feeling worse through dehydration.
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