Middle ear infections are painful and are accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  Discharge only occurs if the eardrum bursts.  Rupture of the membrane does not permanently alter hearing if the eardrum heals well.  Inner ear infections can occur as a complication of a cold or flu, when the infection travels up the Eustachian tube that links the throat and ear.  They can also be caused by food allergies, environmental allergies (especially to tobacco smoke) and exposure to cold or water.

Inner ear infections usually occur as a spread of infection from the middle ear.  Dizziness occurs because the inner ear is responsible for balance.  See the section on Meniere’s disease for more information.   Swelling, redness, and pain may be reported behind the ear.  Complications of an inner ear infection include abscesses and meningitis.

Conventional treatment of ear infection involves the use of antibiotics.  This often clears up the current infection but the body becomes susceptible to subsequent infections if friendly bacteria are not replaced.  The overuse of antibiotics has also lead to antibiotic resistant strains of various organisms.  Recurrent use of antibiotics for ear infections often results in infections that are resistant to treatment.  Individuals can help to minimize resistance by using antibiotics sparingly and always taking prescriptions until they are finished.  Ear tubes can be placed in the eardrum to allow the constant drainage of fluid.  They do not stop subsequent infections.  Natural therapies are very successful at treating ear infections and making individuals less susceptible to subsequent infections.

There are many physical therapies for ear infections.  Warm the ear to decrease pain by placing a wrapped hot water bottle over the area.    Ear oil can be purchases with olive oil and a clove of garlic.  Put a few drops in the ear several times a day.  Note that if the individual has ear tubes or a perforated eardrum do not use any treatment that involves putting something into the ear canal.

Perform steam inhalations, or use a humidifier, with added thyme, sage or eucalyptus oil.  Sleep with your head propped up to maximize ear drainage.

Use hydrotherapy to boost the immune system.  At the end of your shower alternate one minute of hot water with one minute of cold water.  Alternate several times always ending with cold.

Recurrent ear infections are linked to decreased immunity, formula feeding and food allergies.  Dairy products are often the culprits, both because they can be an allergen and because they increase mucus production, which hampers the body’s ability to heal.  Other common allergens are wheat, soy, eggs, chicken and peanuts.  Avoid all of these foods.

Dietary approaches to ear infections are as follows.  Increase fluid intake to decrease the viscosity of mucous secretions.  A diet high in raw fruits and vegetables provides a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.  Onions and garlic are good sources of substances that make up anti-inflammatory compounds and help to kill microbes.  Flaxseed and fish oils contain essential fatty acids that are anti-inflammatory.   Avoid animal products because they contain inflammatory precursors.  Avoid processed foods, white flour and sugar products all of which increase mucous production.

The following list of supplements can be used for preventing and treating ear infections.  They are best taken at the first signs of an infection.  Children’s doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).