Ear Infections & Natural Support

Ear infections, aka Acute Otitis Media (AOM) are an extremely common childhood ailment. It is estimated that 90% of children have at least one episode. It is characterized by inflammation, bulging of the ear drum and fluid may or may not be present. Redness is also not always present.

Ear infections are commonly caused by a viral infection of the upper respiratory system. The eustachian tube helps equalizes air pressure as well as draining nasopharynx secretions to help protect the ear.

Most ear infections likely start with congestion of the upper respiratory system that occurs with a viral infection, swelling of the eustachian tube mucosa which causes narrowing of the tube and leads to fluid accumulating resulting in an infection.

Ear infections are commonly treated with antibiotics. Research estimates that ear infections have bacterial origin in 51 to 78 percent of cases. This means that 22 to 49 percent of cases are due to other causes, such as viruses. It is also possible that food allergies and sensitivities are playing a role.

When dealing with ear infections it is important to think about the process. It is important to look at root cause. Instead of reactive think about how to be proactive. Remove insulting factors, and trying some key pieces before the ear infection starts. If despite that here are some ideas to help. As always this is not medical advice and always consult with your medical provider.

They often start with a cold, I would advise visiting my illness and immune support blog post to help with how I tackle those illnesses (link in bio). 

Key pieces to implement:

  • For pain, a warm washcloth to outer ear.

  • Use garlic and mullein oil ear drops, warmed gently. This provides both antimicrobial and soothing effects. Make sure the ear drums are not ruptured.

  • My top recommendation is using a xylitol nasal spray especially at the start of cold symptoms. It is a sugar alcohol and has been shown to inhibit S. pneumonia, which is a common cause of bacterial ear infections.

  • Lymph drainage (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAs9uFYvcrk)

  • Chiropractic

  • Homeopathy

And, if you need an antibiotic be sure you take care of your gut microbiome afterwards. Chris Kresser has some great info on that. https://chriskresser.com/what-to-do-if-you-need-to-take-antibiotics/

References

Health, WellnessTara Woodland