Summer is the season of seaside pleasures, swimming pools and... air conditioning. Unfortunately, it's also the season of earaches. But don't worry - there are a bunch of natural tricks that can help you quickly and effectively relieve earache right at home.
Summer, swimming and sore ears – why do problems occur? ear pain?
When we jump into a pool, the sea, or a sub-cool air-conditioned room, we often don't imagine that a few hours later we'll be awkwardly holding our heads to the side and whispering: “I think it’s tightening in my ear.”
Earaches in the summer are often caused by:
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- Inflammation of the external auditory canal (“swimmer's ear”), caused by moisture and bacteria in the water.
- Drafts and sudden temperature changes, which is a regular specialty of air conditioners.
- Clogged ear due to wax, which can swell with water and cause a feeling of tightness or deafness.
But don't worry - you won't need to see a doctor right away (unless it gets really bad, of course). We have quite a few natural and proven solutions at home that work faster than a crowded waiting room.
7 tricks to relieve ear pain with natural solutions?
1. Warm compresses: Grandma's trick that still works
This method is classic, but extremely effective. The heat increases blood circulation and relieves pain.
How?
Take a clean cloth, soak it in warm water (not boiling!), wring it out, and place it on the painful ear for 10–15 minutes. You can also use a hot water bottle or heating pad.
2. Garlic oil: a natural antibiotic
Garlic It is not only a culinary ace from grandma's kitchen, but also a natural fighter against bacteria and inflammation.
Recipe:
Crush a clove of garlic, heat it in a teaspoon of olive oil, let it cool a bit, then use an eyedropper to put 1–2 drops into the painful ear (unless you have a ruptured eardrum, of course!) and lie on your side so the oil stays in the ear for at least 10 minutes.
⚠️ Attention: If you suspect you have a ruptured eardrum or ear discharge, avoid this method.
3. Apple cider vinegar and alcohol – against bacteria and moisture
A combination you don't want in a cocktail, but it works!
Instruction:
Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and gently insert it into the ear – don't push!The mixture will help dry out moisture and kill bacteria.
4. Steam inhalation – mini wellness for the ears
If the pain is due to blocked sinuses or internal pressure (typically after flying or swimming in cold water), a facial steam bath will do wonders for you.
Process:
Add a few drops of eucalyptus or tea tree essential oil to a pot of boiling water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 10 minutes. Not only is it therapeutic, but it's also a great excuse to forget about the world for ten minutes.
5. Hair dryer – yes, you read that right
After swimming, the ear often doesn't dry completely, and the moisture creates ideal conditions for bacteria. This is where... a hairdryer comes into play.
Usage:
Set the dryer to the lowest setting and hold it about 30cm from your ear. Blow for a few minutes – not like you’re drying a flock of seagulls, but gently and carefully.
6. Onion juice – natural and slightly tearful
Onions have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Plus, no one will want to get too close to you, which is sometimes a plus.
Instruction:
Squeeze the onion juice with a chopper or blender, heat it slightly, and drop 1–2 drops into the ear (again: only if the eardrum is not damaged).
7. Propolis drops – a gift from the bees
If you're a fan of natural medicine, propolis will come in handy. It acts as a natural antibiotic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory agent.
How to use:
Drop 2–3 drops of propolis into the painful ear once a day until symptoms subside.
When should you see a doctor?
If the pain lasts longer than 2–3 daysif you have fever, ear discharge, hearing loss or severe dizziness, don't waitNatural solutions are great – but they are not a magic wand for all cases.
How to avoid problems in the future?
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- Always dry your ears after swimming.
- Use earplugs.if you are often in the pool or in the wind.
- Do not clean your ears with cotton swabs. – this is more harm than good.
- Adjust your air conditioners smartly – don't play with 16°C in a room where it's 35°C outside. Your ear won't forgive you for that.
Conclusion
Summer is wonderful – especially if you're not limping with a headache and ringing in your ears. Natural methods can be a great first aid, but use them wisely. Listen to your body and… your ears too.
