Outer ear infection
What it is
An ear infection behind the eardrum occurs when the space behind the eardrum becomes infected. It often causes ear pain and sometimes a fever. It is more common in children, especially after a cold.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Follow any recommendations and treatments previously provided by a healthcare professional for ear infections.
- Regularly clean items that go in the ears (earbuds, hearing aids) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Always dry the outside of the ear thoroughly after showering or swimming.
To relieve pain
- Apply heat or cold compress to the ear, depending on which feels better.
- Apply a cold compress to the ear for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours. Use a cold compress, such as an ice pack, a bag of frozen vegetables, or a cold gel pack.
Or
- Apply hot compress for 20 to 30 minutes, 4 times a day. Use a damp towel warmed in the microwave, or a hot water bottle.
- Always place a cloth between the ear and the heat or the cold source to protect the skin.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). If unsure, seek advice from a pharmacist.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
If the ear is draining
- Gently clean the outside of the ear with a tissue. Discard the tissue and wash hands afterward.
- Lie on the side of the draining ear to help fluid drain more easily.
- Keep the ear dry.
- Do not use ear drops if the ear is draining or if the eardrum is perforated, unless directed by a healthcare professional.
What to avoid
- Avoid smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Do not use cotton swabs to clean the ear.
- Do not place objects in the ear (e.g., hearing aids, earplugs, earbuds) until the infection has healed.
When to seek medical attention
If you have any of these signs:
- If the person has ear tubes or a suspected perforated eardrum, seek advice from a pharmacist or the healthcare professional who provided follow-up care.
- Hearing remains reduced despite following the recommended advice and prescribed treatments.
- Symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment.
- The person feels dizzy (room-spinning sensation) and it does not go away.
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Severe ear pain that does not go away
Swelling, redness, or warmth behind the ear
Any weakness or tingling affecting the face, even if it is temporary
Severe headache, stiff neck, or sensitivity to light
Significant dizziness that makes movement difficult
Sudden changes in general condition
- Unusual fatigue (drowsiness) or difficulty staying awake
- Reduced responsiveness to surroundings
- Confusion, agitation, or unusual behaviour
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
- Reduced appetite and thirst
- Difficulty carrying out normal daily activities
In children
- Unusual crying
- Inconsolable crying
- Frequently pulling at or touching the ears
Fever in high-risk individuals
- People with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised)
- Pregnant individuals
- Infants under 3 months of age