Rob (Kentucky) on 05/17/2025

Source: Practical Nursing, p. 136, By Louise Henderson · 1919

Earache may be caused by some indirect trouble with the teeth, or from cold, or by a purely local disease of the ear.

Treatment.

Have the patient keep the head raised on a pillow and lay the affected ear on a hot water bag (not too full). Lacking that, apply hot cloths or even a poultice over the outside ear. If persistent an earache may be relieved by careful syringing with hot water (108 °), for method see page 102. An earache should always be reported to a physician even if it has been relieved. Carefully note any sign of discharge.

Note: Medicine can be added to to warm water (small amount) before syringing like, boric acid, vinegar (white distilled or apple cider), hydrogen peroxide 3%