What should you know about Vicks for earache?

Ear pain can come from a middle-ear infection, earwax buildup, a cold, sinusitis or tonsillitis. Pain can also be referred from the jaw or throat. A scented rub on the outer skin may feel warm, but it does not reach an infected middle ear or remove trapped wax. Never drip Vicks, oil or another household product into the ear, especially when discharge, a perforated eardrum or ear tubes are possible.

Keep the ear dry and use a warm, not hot, compress against the outside for short periods if it feels comfortable. Use age-appropriate pain relief only according to the label or a clinician's advice. Do not insert cotton buds, fingers or objects, and do not try to remove wax yourself. A clinician can examine the ear and decide whether ear wax removal, observation or another treatment is appropriate.

Seek urgent help for swelling behind the ear, a new facial weakness, severe dizziness, sudden hearing loss, a serious injury or a child who appears very unwell. Arrange prompt assessment for fluid or pus from the ear, fever with worsening pain, significant hearing change or pain that is not improving. Antibiotics are used only when a clinician identifies an infection for which they are appropriate.

Ask whether the pain comes from the ear itself or nearby areas, whether the eardrum can be seen clearly, and whether wax removal is safe. Ask which pain relief is suitable and what signs mean the ear needs rechecking.