How to Treat Otitis and Other Ear Conditions: Overview of Drops and Ointments

Ear pain rarely appears suddenly and without a cause. More often, it is the result of a cold, exposure to cold air, a recent viral infection, or complications after a runny nose. Otitis can develop gradually, starting with a feeling of congestion, and, if left untreated, lead to pain and temporary hearing loss. That’s why it is important to understand which over-the-counter treatments are used for ear conditions and how to apply them correctly.

The treatment of otitis depends on its type, the cause of inflammation, and the person’s overall condition. Self-medication without understanding the mechanism of the condition can worsen the situation. Even when using nonprescription options, it is crucial to follow professional advice and product instructions.

Common Ear Conditions

Ear diseases differ by the location of inflammation, underlying causes, and course of development. Understanding these distinctions helps determine the right treatment strategy. Delayed or incorrect management may lead to complications.

In practice, the most frequent issues include external and middle ear infections, Eustachian tube dysfunction, and cerumen buildup.

External Otitis

External otitis is inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the external auditory canal. It often occurs due to microtraumas, moisture exposure (like after swimming), or bacterial infection.

Typical signs:

• pain or discomfort in the ear canal
• itching or fullness
• pain when pressing on the outer ear
• possible redness or swelling

Since inflammation is superficial, local treatments like ointments or drops are often used. Still, it’s important to understand the cause and rule out infection spread before choosing any treatment.

Middle Otitis

Acute otitis media usually develops after a viral or bacterial upper respiratory infection. The infection spreads through the Eustachian tube. Inflammation occurs due to impaired ventilation of the middle ear.

Typical symptoms include:

• sharp, pulsating, or stabbing ear pain
• pressure or fullness
• hearing loss
• general discomfort, possible fever

This condition requires careful management. Drops containing ototoxic substances (e.g., neomycin) are contraindicated if there’s any suspicion of eardrum perforation. Pain can be temporarily relieved using analgesics over the counter, but the core treatment should always be tailored individually.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (Eustachitis or Tubootitis)

This condition is related to inflammation or dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, which balances pressure in the middle ear. It often occurs with allergic rhinitis or upper respiratory infections.

Symptoms:

• a sense of ear fullness or blockage
• muffled hearing
• bubbling sounds or clicking sensations
• discomfort when changing head position

Even without intense pain, this can set the stage for middle ear infections, so it shouldn’t be ignored.

Earwax Blockages and Hygiene Issues

Earwax plugs are a common and reversible cause of hearing loss, especially in the elderly or those who use cotton swabs improperly.

Signs include:

• blocked sensation
• reduced hearing
• echoing or buzzing sounds
• no pain

Anti-inflammatory treatments aren’t needed here. However, cleaning agents must be selected carefully, and attempts to remove wax mechanically are discouraged. In such cases, emergency first aid supplies may include softening drops, but pain relief alone won’t resolve the issue if the plug is causing discomfort.

Medications Used in Otolaryngology

Several medication classes are used in ENT treatment. They aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, combat infection, and maintain ear hygiene. The correct choice depends on the diagnosis and whether the eardrum is intact.

At-home kits often include emergency first aid supplies for use at the first signs of discomfort, but their application must be guided by caution.

Ear Drops with Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Action

These are commonly used when pain and inflammation are present. They act locally to reduce swelling and improve comfort.

Examples:

• Otipax – with phenazone and lidocaine; relieves pain in early-stage otitis with intact eardrum
• Otyrelax – reduces pain and inflammation in mild cases
• Otlorin – contains both analgesics and antiseptics; suitable for external ear infections

Use only if the eardrum is intact. Suspected rupture is a contraindication.

Antibacterial Drops

If a bacterial infection is confirmed, ear drops with antibiotics may be prescribed. These target harmful microbes and must be used according to medical advice.

Common examples:

• Otofa – indicated for bacterial ear infections
• Polydexa – combines anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action; for external otitis with intact eardrum
• Sofradex – used for external otitis; not for use with eardrum damage

These are not preventive tools and must be used correctly to avoid resistance.

Antifungal and Combination Drops

For fungal infections of the ear canal, antifungal or combination drops are prescribed. Such conditions are often linked to local immune suppression or overuse of antibiotics. Treatment must follow proper diagnosis.

Ear Hygiene and Wax Removal Products

These help maintain cleanliness and prevent wax build-up. They do not treat infections but play a role in general ear care.

Popular choices:

• A-Cerumen – dissolves wax plugs
• Remo-Wax – for regular hygiene
• Otisan – for gentle cleansing

Use only in healthy ears; not recommended during infection or inflammation without doctor advice.

Ointments and Topical Treatments

These are used in external otitis with dermatitis or eczema. They are applied superficially, without insertion into the canal. Such treatments reduce irritation, promote healing, and prevent infection spread.

⚠️ Always consult a doctor before starting ear treatments, especially in case of severe pain or suspected complications.

How to Use Ear Medications Properly

Correct technique matters. Improper use can reduce effectiveness or worsen the problem.

Check the eardrum for damage before applying drops. Lie on your side and stay still after application to allow the product to spread evenly.

Ointments should be applied gently around the canal.

Maintain regularity and don’t stop treatment prematurely unless advised. If ear inflammation is accompanied by nervous tension, poor sleep, or anxiety, over the counter medicine for stress relief may also be considered—but only as support.

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