Kaan Dard (Ear Infection): Causes, Ear Drops and When to See a Doctor

An earache can ruin a night’s sleep for a child and an adult alike. Kaan dard (ear pain) is one of the most common reasons parents rush to a clinic, especially in winter when colds and blocked noses are everywhere. The tricky part is that not every earache needs an antibiotic, and the wrong ear drops can do harm. Here is a practical guide to what is going on and what to ask your doctor.

Why do ears hurt?

The most common causes are:

• Middle ear infection (otitis media). Fluid gets trapped behind the eardrum after a cold or throat infection. Very common in children.
• Outer ear infection (swimmer’s ear). The ear canal gets irritated or infected, often after water exposure or poking with cotton buds or hairpins.
• Blocked ear wax. Can cause fullness and mild pain. See our guide on safe ear wax cleaning.
• Referred pain. Toothache, sore throat or jaw problems can feel like an earache. Read about sore throat care and toothache relief.
• Sinus and allergy congestion. Pressure builds up in the ear. Our article on sinusitis may help.

Signs you should not ignore

See a doctor the same day if there is high fever, pus or blood coming from the ear, swelling behind the ear, sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or pain that is getting worse after two days. In babies, pulling at the ear with crying, fever and poor feeding needs a check. Our guide on fever in children lists other warning signs.

Do ear infections always need antibiotics?

No. Many middle ear infections, especially mild ones in older children, settle by themselves within a few days. Doctors often start with pain control and watchful waiting, and prescribe an antibiotic when the child is very young, very unwell, or not improving. If an antibiotic is given, it must be finished exactly as prescribed. We explain why in antibiotics: when needed and how to take them safely.

Medicines your doctor may suggest

• Pain and fever medicines. Paracetamol or ibuprofen type medicines are the usual choice, in the dose suited to age and weight. Browse the Pain and Inflammation and Fever categories, and ask the pharmacist about child friendly forms.
• Antibiotic ear drops or syrups. Prescription only. Drops are for the outer ear, while a middle ear infection usually needs oral treatment.
• Anti inflammatory or steroid drops. Used in selected cases by a doctor.
• Decongestants or antihistamines. Sometimes helpful if a blocked nose is behind the problem. Be careful with these in small children.

For prescription ear drops or antibiotics, you can share your doctor’s prescription on our upload prescription page. Our Ear Care section has the non prescription basics.

Do and do not at home

• Do apply a warm, dry cloth near the ear for comfort.
• Do keep the head slightly raised while resting.
• Do keep the ear dry while it heals.
• Do not put oil, garlic drops, milk or any home liquid in the ear if there is a possibility of a perforated eardrum. If you are not sure, do not use them.
• Do not use cotton buds, matchsticks or hairpins inside the ear.
• Do not use someone else’s ear drops. Some are harmful if the eardrum has a hole.

Preventing repeat ear infections

Treat colds early, and help young children with a blocked nose using safe methods. Our guide to blocked nose in babies has gentle tips. Keep up with childhood vaccines, avoid smoke around children, and breastfeed in a semi upright position where possible.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Is this an outer or middle ear problem?
• Is the eardrum intact, and are drops safe?
• Do we need an antibiotic or can we wait a day or two?
• How long until hearing is back to normal?
• When should we return if there is no improvement?

Frequently asked questions

Can an earache go away on its own?

Often yes, especially mild cases. But if the pain lasts beyond two or three days or comes with fever, get it checked.

Is it safe to swim with an ear infection?

It is best to avoid swimming until your doctor says the infection has cleared.

Can I clean the ear with a cotton bud?

Doctors advise against it. It pushes wax deeper and can scratch the canal.

Why does my child get so many ear infections?

Young children have shorter, flatter ear tubes that block easily. Repeated infections should be reviewed by an ENT specialist.

Disclaimer: This article is for general awareness and does not replace professional advice. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medicine or ear drops, especially for babies and children.

Quick takeaway

Most earaches are mild and improve with simple pain control, rest and time, but ear pain with high fever, discharge, swelling or hearing loss should never be ignored. Keep the ear dry, avoid home liquids and cotton buds, and let your doctor decide about antibiotics. Parents of children with frequent infections should ask about an ENT review, because repeated fluid behind the eardrum can affect hearing and speech if it is missed. A calm, step by step approach protects the ear far better than rushing to try every drop or remedy someone recommends.