Is Ibuprofen Effective At Treating Ear Infections And Inflamed Throat?

Posted on Fri, 13 Apr 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 Answered on

Fri, 4 Aug 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Last week I went to an urgent care for ear infection. Was given ear drops with antibiotics and steroids. as time progressed I got worse. Migraines, ears now felt inflamed and sore throat that felt swollen and now cough. So bad I went to the emergency room, they got rid of the headache, went home, took the meds I had been given and within a few hours, migraines, everything felt worse. Maybe allergic to the meds. But have missed 4 days of work due to pain, need to get on the correct track of healing but have to get rid of the pain. Suggestions?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:

For the pain I suggest you to take oral painkillers.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I see that you are already taking proper treatment for the ear infection.

Prescribed antibiotics are the first line of treatment in this case.

Ear drops for the pain have a local effect. This is why for the pain I suggest you take oral ibuprofen 400 mg 3 times a day.
I also suggest to use:

-warm compresses to lessen the pain
-to sleep without pressing the ear
If the pain does not relieve I suggest you to consult your doctor for prescribed painkillers.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Dorina Gurabardhi, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T