Middle ear infections Swimmer’s ear Excessive ear wax Ear pain
This article looks at some common types of ear drops, how they’re used on people of different ages, possible side effects, and who shouldn’t use ear drops.
Uses and Types of Ear Drops
How to use ear drops will depend on the type. You’ll want to follow the instructions exactly. Some of the more common uses and types of ear drops include:
Breaking up ear wax: Acid-based detergentsPreventing swimmer’s ear: Alcohol and acetic acid solutionsBacterial infections: AntibioticsNumbing ear pain: Anesthetics
Corticosteroid ear drops also are available. They are used to treat ear inflammation.
How to Use Ear Drops
Before using ear drops, give the product instructions a thorough read. If they’re not clear, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for directions.
Look over the list of possible side effects. Check the expiration date and throw away expired drops. Also, throw them out if they appear to be contaminated.
Always wash your hands with soap and water before using ear drops.
Usage in Adults and Teens
These instructions apply whether you’re alone or helping someone:
Fold a towel in half and lay it on a kitchen or bathroom counter. Lay your head on the towel with the affected ear up. Gently pull the earlobe out and up to straighten the ear canal. Carefully put the recommended number of drops into the ear canal. Gently push on the ear flap to help move the liquid in deeper. Keep the head down for at least a minute or two so the medication can fully coat the canal. Repeat with the other ear if needed.
Usage in Children
The process can be harder for children, especially if they’re young or squeamish. If possible, try to have two adults present: one to keep the child still and one to put the drops in.
The procedure is slightly different because children’s ear canals are shorter and have a more horizontal angle.
To safely give them drops:
Fold a clean towel in half and place it on the floor or bed. Have the child lay their head on the towel, affected ear up. One of you should hold the child’s head still. If the child is especially fidgety, try lying down and cradling them while restraining the head. Gently pull the earlobe out and down (rather than out and up) to straighten the canal. Put in the prescribed number of drops. Gently push on the flap of the ear or plug the ear with a cotton ball. Keep the child in this position for several minutes. Repeat on the other ear if needed.
For an infant, try swaddling them to keep them still. Toddlers may need to be cradled with their arms and legs fully restrained.
Side Effects
The ear is a delicate structure. It doesn’t always respond well to medications. If you have any abnormal reactions to the drops, call your healthcare provider.
This is especially true if you have an allergic reaction with:
BurningItchingRednessA rash in or around the ear
While rare, it’s possible for some ear drops to trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. The corticosteroid betamethasone, for example, has been known to cause this reaction. If it’s not treated, anaphylaxis can lead to coma, shock, heart or lung failure, and even death.
Contraindications
If you have a ruptured eardrum, don’t use drops unless your healthcare provider says to. It can allow potentially damaging chemicals into the middle ear. This includes antibiotic ear drops for an infection.
RashHivesWheezingShortness of breathChest tightnessFacial swellingLightheadednessRapid heartbeat
Symptoms of a rupture are:
A sharp painDrainage from the earA popping noise immediately followed by the relief of pain and pressure
See your healthcare provider if you think an eardrum is ruptured. And don’t put anything in your ear until it’s been checked out. In most cases, the eardrum will repair itself within a matter of days.
Summary
Ear drops are common treatments for ear-related problems. You can give them to yourself but it may be easier with help.
When giving ear drops to a child, have two adults present if possible. That way, one can hold the child still while the other gives them the drops.
Read the instructions, check the expiration date, and wash your hands well before using the drops. Side effects, allergic reactions, and anaphylaxis are possible. Always get emergency medical care for a severe allergic reaction.
