Inflamed ear: causes, symptoms and treatment options

Ear drops for inflamed ears are often the first line of treatment. These may contain:

• Antibiotics (for bacterial infections)
• Antifungal agents
• Steroids to reduce inflammation
• Soothing agents like olive oil

When selecting ear drops for inflamed ear canals, always follow your pharmacist’s or GP’s advice. Avoid self-medicating if unsure of the cause, particularly if there's pain or discharge.

Some people find relief from home remedies for inflamed ear canal, including:

• Applying a warm compress to the outer ear
• Keeping the ear dry and avoiding water entry
• Using over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Avoiding the use of earbuds or headphones until healed

Note: Never insert liquids or oils into the ear without medical guidance, especially if you suspect a perforated eardrum.

Recurring ear inflammation could be a sign of:

• Underlying skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis)
• Chronic irritation from hearing aids or earphones
• Allergic reactions to materials or cosmetics
• Poor ear hygiene practices like over-cleaning

If your inflammation keeps coming back and infection has been ruled out, it’s important to explore non-infectious causes with your GP or audiologist.

Most cases of inflamed ear canal clear up within 7 to 10 days with proper treatment. An inflamed ear without infection typically lasts a few days to a week, depending on the cause. If it’s due to irritation (like from hearing aids, earphones, or over-cleaning), symptoms usually improve once the trigger is removed. However, if inflammation persists beyond a week or worsens, it’s best to consult a GP.

Yes, ear inflammation can cause headaches due to pressure build-up or irritation of nearby nerves. This is especially common with middle or inner ear issues. If the headache is persistent or comes with other symptoms like dizziness or hearing loss, it’s best to consult a GP.

Yes, a buildup of ear wax can cause inflammation, especially if it becomes impacted. Hardened wax may press against the ear canal walls, leading to redness, swelling, discomfort, and even temporary hearing loss. Trying to remove it with cotton buds can make it worse and increase the risk of irritation or infection. If you suspect wax-related inflammation, speak to a healthcare professional for safe removal.

Yes, ibuprofen can help reduce ear inflammation by relieving pain and lowering swelling. It is an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication that may ease discomfort caused by an inflamed ear canal or middle ear. However, ibuprofen treats symptoms and not the underlying cause, so it’s important to see a GP if symptoms persist or worsen.