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Getting any ache or pain when you are pregnant can be annoying, and an earache can be the most irritating ache during a pregnancy. Earaches mostly stem from an ear infection; however, when you are pregnant, medicines to treat the infection could pose a risk to the unborn baby. You would therefore need to take special care during pregnancy of any infections.

There are a number of causes of earache during pregnancy. Some of the other causes of an earache during pregnancy include:

• Build-up of wax in the ear
• Inflammation due to allergies
• Pressure on the ear from sleeping or resting your head
• Sinus infection or the flu

Any of this can be irritating for a pregnant woman who is already prone to mood swings and hormonal changes. However, keep in mind that an earache is usually not a symptom of pregnancy.

Treating an Earache

An earache while pregnant should be treated with caution as prescription drugs are not recommended during pregnancy. Depending on the cause of the earache, your doctor may prescribe certain treatment options.

• If the earache is related to the sinus, a decongestant will help to decrease the swelling in the sinus cavity
• An expectorant can be given to drain out the mucus
• Pain relievers can provide relief from pain and reduce the inflammation
• If this caused from the build-up of wax, getting it cleaned by an ENT doctor will help

Avoid any self treatment when in pregnancy. The best option is to consult a doctor who can recommend the right treatment or medication for you that will keep both the mother and child safe. Home remedies are also an option that some women opt for.

• Most ear infections are caused by fungus, a home remedy used often is vinegar thinned in water. This mixture is used to clear the infection from the ear.
• One way to get immediate relief from the pain is to place a warm salt bag on the ear.
• Salt water gargle should also ease some of the discomfort.
• Garlic extract and olive oil are other options.

That said; the best way to avoid an earache is by prevention, which can be achieved by maintaining good hygiene.

Tips

• Consult your doctor before using any medication as it may affect the baby.
• Avoid water entering your ears as this could lead to an earache. A moist ear is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
• Maintain good ear hygiene by getting your ears cleaned periodically.
• Try to avoid getting a cold or the flu as this could also lead to your ear getting infected.

1. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000638.htm
2. http://health.mo.gov/living/families/schoolhealth/pdf/Communicable_Disease.pdf

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.