A Practical Solution to Ear Infections

We can’t look inside our own ears—but if we could, we would see that what goes on in the ears is intimately connected to the nose, and what goes on in the nose is intimately connected to the ears. Here’s how it works—and why it matters.

Three distinct areas make up the human ear: the outer, middle, and inner ear.

The ear canal is part of the outer ear. This is the part we can see, the part that can get blocked with ear wax, and the part that captures sound from outside the body. The ear canal carries sound to a thin, translucent membrane—the eardrum–which a medical provider can easily observe in a clinical setting when evaluating a possible ear infection.

On the other side of the eardrum is the middle ear, an air-filled chamber that contains the ossicles (three tiny bones all linked together). When the eardrum vibrates with sound coming from the ear canal, the ossicles pick up the vibrations and amplify them, carrying them to the inner ear. The inner ear translates those vibrations into electrical signals and sends them to the auditory nerve, which is connected to the brain. When these nerve impulses reach the brain, they’re interpreted as sound.

As the Nose Goes, the Ears Follow

How do ear infections involve the nose? Nasal health is critical for healthy ears because there is a direct connection between the middle ear and the nose.

Just ask Molly, who was brought into my clinic after both her mother and kindergarten teacher expressed concern that she was not paying attention in class. A quick screen in the office indicated a “conductive hearing loss.” Mom wanted to avoid medications if possible, so she agreed to try nasal rinsing. Soon Molly was washing like a pro, and two weeks later the repeat hearing test was normal. A simple and safe approach resolved her problem.

Let’s explore the reasons for such a simple approach to be so effective.

For sound vibrations to send the signals to the inner ear, the middle part of the ear must be ventilated, allowing the air pressure on either side of the eardrum to equalize. The Eustachian tube is responsible for this ventilation, and for draining mucus from the middle ear into the back of the throat.

The Eustachian tube begins in the middle ear and extends into the back of the upper throat, approximately at the same level as your nostrils. The portion of this tube nearest the eardrum is always open, protecting the middle ear. The end that drains into the back of the throat is normally closed. We open and close this part of the Eustachian tube when we chew and suck.

If air is bubbling up and mucus is flowing down and out into the throat, all is well. But for this to happen, it is vital that the Eustachian tube remain open and free to drain. None of this can be accomplished if there is a mucus plug or if there is swelling, as both plugging and swelling prevent natural drainage. And it doesn’t take much to cause obstruction. Upper airway infections or allergies can cause this tiny tube to become swollen, trapping bacteria and causing middle ear infections.

Americans spend billions of dollars each year treating ear problems in children, much of it on doctor visits, drugs, and surgery. Ear infections are the top reason children visit a doctor’s office, and the number of children coming in with ear infections has risen throughout the past decade. There are several reasons for this, including bottle feeding, increased allergies, greater pollution, more children in daycare, and exposure to cigarette smoke.

Children experience far more ear infections than adults, and this is because their Eustachian tubes are immature. Infants and children have a more horizontal Eustachian tube without gravity to assist in drainage. It is also much shorter and collapses more easily compared to an adult tube; the opening in the throat is more rounded, making it easier for secretions to find their way up into the middle ear. Additionally, babies tend not to swallow when they are asleep (they drool), and less swallowing means less ventilation of the middle ear. All of these differences result in a buildup of negative pressure, which causes pain and leads to restless nights.

Chronic Nasal Congestion and Solutions

Anyone who has had difficulty clearing their ears after flying in an airplane or has felt the congestion of a cold that “clogged” their ears knows how Eustachian tube dysfunction feels. Children with chronic nasal congestion feel this way all the time. These children think the world always sounds muffled, and it is no surprise that they cannot speak clearly.

The most common causes of Eustachian tube dysfunction are allergies and respiratory infections. Traditionally, doctors have given antihistamines to dry up secretions and decongestants to clear the passages. However, the side effects of these two medications can be problematic, especially in children.

For years, doctors would automatically prescribe antibiotics when any fluid was found in the middle ear. If the fluid persisted, they would recommend surgical placement of drainage ports, called PE tubes, in the eardrum—a man-made exit for the fluid. These tubes do not correct the original problem, but they do allow the fluid to drain out the ear canal if the Eustachian tube is blocked. More recently, the Academy of Pediatrics acknowledged that routine antibiotics and PE tubes may not be the best approach and has now released new recommendations. A watch-and-wait approach to most ear infections is the newest guideline, but as in the past, it is up to each physician to decide on the necessity of using antibiotics and/or surgery.

These recommendations will hopefully contribute to a decrease in the overuse of antibiotics and a reduction in bacterial resistance. Using fewer medications will reduce the development of adverse drug reactions as well. Sometimes these medications are warranted, but there is a first-line treatment that is much safer and often more effective in addressing the core issue as compared to medication: nasal washing with hypertonic buffered salt water.

In general, a good washing of the nasal cavity is all that is needed to maintain a healthy environment for the tissues. There are three key elements necessary to maintain the normal function of the nose and sinuses: keep the cilia (nose hairs) clean enough to keep on sweeping, keep the sinus drainage ports open and free to drain, and keep mucus thin and free-flowing.

Irrigating the nose with a buffered hypertonic solution can accomplish all three of these objectives. It also acts as a natural decongestant, allowing that Eustachian tube to open and drain the middle ear. (Remember: just ask Molly.)

Research suggests that nasal irrigation is useful in the management of ear infections, with decreases in both symptoms and medication use. If all patients, young and old, use a wash system that encourages effective and comfortable techniques, they may be glad to forgo a prescription for antibiotics, decongestants, antihistamines, nasal steroids, and more.

Be well and happy breathing, naturally.

The post A Practical Solution to Ear Infections appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is holistic healing better?

Holistic care addresses the whole person rather that individual symptoms. This involves looking at the person’s feelings, food, lifestyle, stress levels, etc.

Holistic medicine considers all aspects of a patient’s life and treats them as a complete package. Although it may sound easy, in practice this is difficult because doctors tend to focus only on the physical aspect of patients.

Which types of treatment are not considered part of holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healing. It focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms. It helps people to recover from illness by promoting health and preventing disease.

Holistic medicine uses natural remedies, such as herbs, homeopathy and acupuncture, instead of surgery and drugs.

Holistic medicine involves lifestyle changes such diet, exercise and yoga.

Integrative medicine is also known as holistic medicine. It integrates all aspects, including the patient’s spiritual, mental, and physical needs, into a single comprehensive care plan.

Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.

Holistic doctors believe in the possibility of multiple causes. Holistic doctors look at the whole picture, which includes genetic factors, environmental influences and lifestyle choices.

Holistic practitioners place more emphasis on the mind, emotions and spirit than the body.

Holistic physicians consult with their patients to help them determine the best option for them.

How safe are holistic medicines?

Holistic remedies are safe, as they are not dangerous drugs, but natural remedies for people who have used them for centuries.

They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies address the whole person instead of just the symptoms.

Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?

Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.

They seek to avoid dangerous drugs and surgeries.
They believe that natural remedies work better.
They prefer noninvasive treatments.
They are looking to spend less.
Natural products are safer for them.
They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
They want to take control of their health.
They seek a more healthy environment.
They are looking for less stress in life.
They want greater freedom when choosing their doctors, and in selecting their healthcare plans.
They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
They desire healthy food to feed their families.
They want safe, effective drugs.

What are alternatives to medicine?

Alternative medicine refers only to alternative treatments that are not considered to be effective in treating diseases. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.

Alternative medicine may also include practices that are not supported by scientific evidence but have been used with great success in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.

Can a holistic doctor write prescriptions?

Holistic medicine relies on the idea that all diseases are caused in part by a combination – diet, lifestyle and environment. Stress, anxiety, genetics and any other health-related factors.

These factors are important to consider when prescribing medications. This is part of a balanced approach to treating patients.

Understanding how each factor affects patients is essential for a physician to be able understand modern science as well as traditional methods such homeopathy and herbs.

Many doctors are certified to practice complementary and alternative medicine (C&A). This allows doctors to offer a broad range of services to their patients.

What are the strengths of holistic medicine compared to conventional medicine?

Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They were based on ancient wisdom and experience.

These medicines are safe, effective, natural, and affordable. These side effects are far less severe than those from pharmaceutical drugs.

They can help you attain better health, and overall wellness.

They can reduce the risk of disease and increase your overall well-being.

They might even cure cancer, diabetes or heart disease.

There are hundreds upon hundreds of traditional medicines around the world, each offering unique benefits.

According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people rely on traditional treatments for injury or illness.

A reported half-billion people use traditional herbal remedies to get primary healthcare.

The global market for complementary therapies is estimated to reach $22.2 billion by 2020.

People are increasingly looking for alternative medical options to avoid any side effects that may be associated with traditional treatments.

Many people turn to complementary therapies when they do not respond to other treatment options. These therapies may be tried before they resort to medication or surgery.

There are many reasons that people choose complementary therapy.

To improve quality of life
To reduce stress levels
For relaxation
To ease your pain
To enhance immunity
Supportive services for dealing with serious diseases
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To treat chronic conditions

Statistics

The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)

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How To

What are the different types of alternative and complementary medicine?

The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body medicine covers yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki, as well as chiropractic care, homeopathy (naturopathy), biofeedback, hypnosis and hypnosis. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative therapies include physical manipulation such as osteopathic and chiropractic care, acupuncture, therapeutic exercise, and bodywork. You can also use prayer and visualization to help you heal your energy.

CAM refers to a variety of health practices that are not in line with Western medical models. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM practitioners can also do diagnostic testing (e.g., blood test) and prescribe medication. Others may do neither.

There are several subcategories to each category that go beyond the four primary categories. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products can include nutritional supplements and botanical medicines, homeopathic remedies as well as essential oils, botanical medicines, essential oils, nutraceuticals herbal preparations, medicinal herbs, and teas. Manual, movement, traction and electrotherapies are all forms of manipulative therapy. They include cupping, stretching and myofascial release. Trigger point therapy, orthotics, neurostimulation, trigger point therapy, manuals, trigger points, trigger point therapy, orthopedics. There are spiritual healing modalities such as prayer and faith healing within energy healing.

Many CAM therapies treat symptoms, but not the cause. Some chronic diseases may be treated with CAM. If used properly, CAM can be combined with conventional treatments.

There are many different reasons people use the CAM.

To improve their overall well being.
To manage a specific condition.
To reduce discomfort or pain
To prevent illness.
To promote wellness.
To address a personal belief.

Some people turn to CAM because it offers more control over their health than conventional medicine. Some may feel it has less side effects. Others choose CAM to avoid taking prescription medications. Others prefer to avoid taking pharmaceuticals whenever possible. Others seek out CAM after having bad experiences with traditional medicine.

Some people who use CAM feel that they need to be certain about their work before trying new things. Many CAM users are concerned about the safety and effectiveness. Others rely upon word-of-mouth referrals from family and friends.

Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM are more happy and healthier than those who do not. This is true regardless age, gender and race.

The majority of Americans use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health was able to estimate that around 40 million people visited CAM practitioners in 2010 alone.

According to the NCCIH, 10 percent of Americans use chiropractors, massage therapists and acupuncturists.3 This compares with only 2 percent who use medical doctors.

The American Medical Association renewed its support for integrative medicines in 2013. It recognized that doctors must “integrate scientifically valid alternative and complementary medicine into clinical practices…to meet patients’ needs.”

The Institute of Medicine published a landmark document in 2007 called “Relaxing Contraints: Improving Access To Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” This report stated that there is no evidence that any specific CAM intervention is capable of curing, preventing, or treating cancer.

CAM continues growing in popularity despite these findings. 2008 saw a 8 percent increase in the number of CAM professionals compared to 2007.

A recent survey found that almost half the respondents said they used CAM as part their primary healthcare plan.

CAM therapies include natural products as well mind-body practices, manipulative technologies, energy healing methods, exercise, diet supplements and other approaches.

Many CAM therapies are used primarily for pain relief; however, many also offer other benefits, such as relaxation, improved mood, better sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced immunity.

Acupuncture, for example, can relieve chronic back pain, lower anxiety and depression, improve immune function and promote weight loss.

Many CAM treatments are based on traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, and their roots go back thousands of years.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.

TCM has remained an important component in health care even though it was not until the middle of 1800s that Western science became popular.

TCM has become a popular treatment option for more than 70% of the population in the United States.

Another popular CAM therapy is yoga. Yoga was first developed in India around 5000 B.C. It is now widespread.

Yoga is gaining popularity because of its many benefits, including spiritual, mental and physical.

Yoga can relieve stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength.

Although limited scientific research has been done, yoga may have beneficial effects on sleep33.

Other CAM therapies such as aromatherapy, meditation, and homeopathy are also being accepted by mainstream medicine.

The most widely used CAM today is herbal medicine.

Herbal medicines contain herbs, spices, flowers, seeds, fruits, mushrooms, bark, leaves, roots, and stems.

They are commonly used as safer alternatives to prescription drugs and are often preferred by consumers.

The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.

According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.

The National Institutes of Health estimate that 60% of patients suffering from cancer use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 50% of all cancer survivors have reported using CAM.

According to a recent study, 51% cancer survivors have used at the very least one type of CAM.

However, only 8% of these individuals discussed this use with their physicians.

This gap in healthcare delivery is caused by a lack of communication between conventional doctors and CAM users.

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If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.

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By: Dick Benson
Title: A Practical Solution to Ear Infections
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/immunity/a-practical-solution-to-ear-infections/
Published Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2023 20:37:45 +0000