Ear pain is common and usually manageable at home, but it’s important to know when to seek medical care. Here’s a practical, evidence-informed outline to help you decide what to do. Direct steps to take now

• Manage pain and fever: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen can reduce pain and fever in adults and children, following the labeled dosing for age/weight. Do not give ibuprofen to infants under 6 months without medical advice.

• Apply heat or cold: A warm (not hot) compress placed over the affected ear can ease pain. Some people find a cold compress or alternating heat and cold helpful. Use for 10–20 minutes at a time as needed.

• Elevate the head to drain: When sleeping or resting, keep the head elevated with pillows to help ear drainage and relieve pressure.

• Ear drops and earwax: If there’s suspected wax buildup, gentle hydrogen peroxide drops or over-the-counter ear drops may help, but avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal. If there is drainage, bleeding, or suspected a ruptured eardrum, avoid ear drops and seek care.

What to watch for that needs medical attention

• Severe or persistent pain beyond 48–72 hours despite home care.
• Fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) lasting more than 2 days in children, or a high fever in adults.
• Ear discharge that is bloody, foul-smelling, or ongoing beyond a day or two.
• Hearing loss, dizziness, vision changes, severe headache, confusion, or swelling around the ear.
• If you have compromised immune function, diabetes, or a history of ear problems, or if a child is very young (especially under 2 years), seek medical advice sooner.

Special considerations

• Antibiotics: Middle ear infections (otitis media) often improve without antibiotics, but some cases may require them. A clinician will determine if antibiotics are appropriate based on age, symptoms, and exam findings.

• Ear tube considerations: Recurrent ear infections or persistent discomfort may prompt discussion of preventive strategies with a clinician.

When to seek urgent care

• Sudden severe ear pain with high fever, severe swelling around the ear, new facial weakness, or any signs of a possible perforated eardrum warrant prompt evaluation by a clinician or urgent care.

Helpful questions to ask a clinician

• Do you think this is an ear infection or earwax buildup?
• Is there a risk of complications, and will I need antibiotics?
• What pain relief plan is safe for my age and health conditions?
• Are there red flags I should monitor at home, and when should I return for follow-up?

Notes

• This guidance is general. Individual recommendations depend on age, medical history, pregnancy status, and current medications. If in doubt or if symptoms are worsening, contact a healthcare professional for personalized advice.