The ear is a complex sensory organ embedded in the skull and traditionally divided into three parts (external ear, middle ear and inner ear). The external outer ear includes the freshly and cartilaginous part that we see on the side of the face, it contains the canal that secretes wax to keep it oily and it stops infections entering the more delicate middle ear where sounds are registered. The middle ear is embedded in the mastoid bone and contains a delicate hearing mechanism. This small box-like cavity is connected to the back of the throat by a narrow tube called the Eustachian tube. The inner ear consists of a complex set of structures known as the labyrinth that is concerned with hearing and balance.
Earache can be caused by blockage or infection of either the outer or middle ear and will lead to pain, which is dull or throbbing together with a temperature and yellow/green discharge or thick mucus which can be blood strained. Blockage of the ear canal can arise from wax and water (swimmer’s ear) and infections can arise when people try to clean their ears and in doing so, damage the delicate lining. Pain also occurs when the ear is blocked because of a cold, or because of cabin pressurization when flying in an aeroplane.
It’s important to remember that Homeopathy is individualised and based on the symptom picture of what the client is presenting on mental, emotional and physical levels. Please seek advice from your local fully qualified Homeopath or GP for assistance.
Symptoms:
- Earache, pain in the ear that is sharp, dull, or throbbing
- Discharge from either ear, known as runny ear.
- Temperature and vomiting (small children).
- Uncontrollable crying and (in small babies) diarrhoea.
- Partial deafness or muffled hearing.
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Fevers
- Irritable
- Headaches
- It is important to avoid leaving the ear canal wet especially after swimming.
- Dizziness or loss of balance
Homeopathy Support
Trying to prevent colds and infections (concentrate on a good whole food diet and take extra vitamin c). Homeopathy can be very effective both as first-aid remedy support in the middle of the night and also in the long term complaints. If this is ongoing or recurring, this would require a constitutional approach through a fully qualified Homeopath.
The following may be taken according to the symptom picture of the client:
- Aconite: For severe pain, irritation, due to chilling
- Chamomilla: High temperature, crying/restlessness, discharge.
- Mercurius: Sweating, very cold sensation, maybe a delirious child.
- Pulsatilla: Yellow/green discharge, temperature, tearful.
- Ferrum Phos: For fever pain and congestion
- Kali Sulph: When there is a thin, watery yellow discharge.
Acute Ear Infections
Acute earaches are most common in young children. They need to be supported quickly, as an infection in the middle ear can be both painful damaging, connect with your local Homeopath for guidance. However, always remember to seek medical help if the earache worsens or persists
Prevention’s and Self-Help
Avoid sticking matchsticks or cotton buds in your ear in an attempt to remove foreign objects yourself. Always wear mufflers if using loud machinery or working in a noisy factory. Do not play your headphones or stereos loudly or put your ear close to the loudspeakers, be careful to regulate the volume of personal stereos carefully.
Adapted from source
Homeopathy360 Team
