If you have an ear infection, initial treatment mostly focuses on relieving symptoms and allowing the infection to clear up on its own. You can do the following:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce pain and fever. Use age-appropriate doses for children.
• Apply a warm compress to the infected ear for up to 20 minutes to help reduce pain.
• Rest and avoid sleeping on the infected ear. Elevate your head to help fluid drain.
• Use salt water gargles if a sore throat accompanies the ear infection.
• For outer ear infections (swimmer's ear), drying eardrops may help but avoid them if you have ear tubes, discharge, or a ruptured eardrum.
• Avoid using Q-tips or inserting objects into the ear canal to prevent worsening the infection.

See a doctor if:

• Symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days.
• You have severe pain, hearing changes, fluid discharge, swelling, or persistent fever.
• The infected person is an infant under 12 months or has underlying health issues.

Medical treatment may involve antibiotics if the infection is bacterial or persistent, especially in children with severe symptoms or recurrent infections. Surgery such as ear tube placement can be considered for chronic or recurrent cases to drain fluid and prevent infection. Common home remedies and medical advice work together to relieve pain, treat infection if needed, and prevent complications.