Introduction Ear drops can be used to treat or prevent ear infections or to help remove earwax. Ear drops may be bought over-the-counter or prescribed by your doctor. They’re typically used for short-term treatment. No matter what kind of ear drops you use or why you use them, it’s important to administer them correctly. Using ear drops properly allows the medication to enter your ear canal and treat your ear problem. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to use ear drops properly and safely. Along with your ear drops, you’ll need hand sanitizer or soap and water to clean your hands. You’ll also need some tissues or a towel to wipe away excess drops that drain out of your ear after applying the ear drops. These instructions can help you put ear drops into your own ears. If you’re a parent or caregiver, follow the same steps to give drops to a child or another person. If you have trouble putting drops into your own ears, ask a family member or friend to follow these steps to help you. Preparing
Putting in the drops
Finishing upYou should also know how long you can use the ear drops safely after opening the bottle. For prescription ear drops, ask your pharmacist or doctor about the expiration date. For over-the-counter drops, check the expiration date on the label. If the drops have expired, throw them away. Don’t use expired ear drops. To help your ear drops work well, follow these instructions and any directions from the label or your doctor or pharmacist. These steps should help you use your prescription or over-the-counter ear drops easily and safely. If you have any questions about using your ear drops, ask your doctor or pharmacist. DISORDERS OF THE EAR CANAL- Many issues can occur with the ear canal, also known as the external auditory canal. Infections can occur and are referred to as otitis externa or swimmers ear. These infections are more prevalent during summer months with higher humidity and visits to the pool, lake, and beach. It is usually caused by water or moisture trapped in the ear canal. The delicate skin of the canal can then become infected with bacteria. This causes pain, ear fullness, decreased hearing and swelling. Antibiotic ear drops are usually prescribed for 5-7 days along with instructions to keep water out of the ear. The proper way to instill the drops is to lay on your back or side with the affected ear up, lightly pull back the ear and apply the drops. Try to stay in that position for 3-5 minutes to allow the drops to run down the entire ear canal. Sometimes the ear canal can get so swollen that ear drops won’t go all the way into the canal. In these cases, an ear “wick” is placed in the canal to facilitate the drops getting to the infection. Occasionally oral steroids might be used if the swelling is severe or if the swelling extends past the ear canal. Oral antibiotics may be used if the infection has spread into the surrounding tissue causing a cellulitis.
Although bacteria cause most cases of otitis externa, sometimes fungal infections can be the cause. Thorough cleaning of the canal is then necessary to remove as much of the infection as possible before prescribing drops or ear “rinses.” Although not an ear infection, dry skin from a lack of cerumen or eczema can cause itching and flaking of the skin around the opening of the canal or inside the canal. This can usually be treated with steroid ear drops or creams. A more common problem associated with the ear canal is wax (cerumen) impactions. Ear wax serves a useful purpose in keeping the canal skin healthy and for fighting off infections. Too much wax, however, can can lead to blockage of the canal and affect hearing. It can also cause ear pain, itchy ears, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). In these cases, the cerumen needs to be removed. Although Q-tips are widely used for cleaning of the canal, they tend to push the wax deeper into the ear canal making it more difficult to remove. Over-the-counter kits containing an irrigation bulb and a peroxide-type drop can be helpful. If this doesn’t work, a qualified practitioner should remove the cerumen. Techniques to remove the wax may include irrigation, curette, or suction leaving a healthy ear canal.
Written by Dr. Joel J. Alexander To schedule a same-day appointment, call 770-740-1860 or click on the button below. Schedule an Appointment
IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER Not all ear drops are safe to use when you have a hole in your eardrum (perforation), grommet or T-tube. Make sure that who ever prescribes your treatment are well aware if you have any of these. Some ear drops has to be stored in the fridge, this is important to ensure the medication is viable so follow storage instructions carefully. Some ear drops may stain your hair and bed linen so be sure to read the instructions carefully. If you have any concerns or side effects while using ear drops please stop using them and discuss this with a medical professional. Help lines:
Knowing how to use ear drops can help with clogged ears and other painful conditions. Ear drops are generally safe when used properly. They are available as both over-the-counter medications and as the more recommended prescription drugs. They can be used to treat ear problems that include:
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. 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:
Corticosteroid ear drops also are available. They are used to treat ear inflammation. 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.
Ear drops are best used at room temperature. If they're too cold or hot, they can make you feel dizzy and disoriented. Carry cold drops in your pants pocket for 30 minutes to bring up the temperature. These instructions apply whether you're alone or helping someone:
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:
For an infant, try swaddling them to keep them still. Toddlers may need to be cradled with their arms and legs fully restrained.
It's possible to give yourself ear drops but the angle of the auditory tube (ear canal) can make it tricky. A second set of hands can help. When giving ear drops to a child, a second adult may be necessary. 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:
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.
Call 911 or get emergency care if you develop these symptoms after using ear drops:
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. Symptoms of a rupture are:
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. 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. Frequently Asked Questions
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