Conservation

A heat treatment of the ear can also improve the pain in acute middle ear inflammation, for example by using a hot water bottle, a heating pad or irradiation with red light. However, this should not be done if complications have already occurred. However, there is no scientific study to prove its effectiveness.

According to experience reports, the application of onion or chamomile sachets also brings relief, even though there is no study-based proof of this either. In the case of recurrent acute middle ear infections, a specific clarification by a doctor is recommended. In addition, a vaccination against certain bacteria, such as pneumococci, can be successful.

Removal of enlarged pharyngeal tonsils or antibiotic prophylaxis, which is controversial because of the development of possible resistance, can also prevent further middle ear infections. About 3 to 4 weeks after the diagnosis of an acute middle ear infection, a follow-up examination should be carried out, unless a doctor’s visit was previously necessary due to persistent symptoms, to assess the eardrum and hearing performance and to determine whether the middle ear infection has healed. It should also be remembered that after a severe inflammation of the middle ear, the inflammation may not have healed completely once the symptoms have subsided.

So you should still take it easy on yourself – even if you feel better – and take the time to get really healthy. We also strongly advise against going to the swimming pool in the days after an acute middle ear infection in order to prevent the inflammation from flaring up again.

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