Natural health aficionados in Augusta embrace all sorts of alternative therapies, from acupuncture to essential oils. Almost everything is perceived as a potential cure for hearing-related problems, but the science usually fails to back up those claims. Apple cider vinegar just might prove to be the exception.
Can Apple Cider Vinegar treat Ear Infections?
Ear infections can occur in patients of all ages in Augusta, but are most common in children, especially those that affect the middle ear. The medical term, otitis media, refers to an ear infection caused by a virus or bacteria, often following a cold, flu or allergies.
Why do kids get ear infections so often?
Kids experience the majority of middle ear infections largely as a result of their anatomy; the Eustachian tube, an organ that regulates air pressure and promotes fluid drainage in the middle ear, is narrower and more horizontal in children than adults—and therefore more susceptible to swelling and blockage.
What are the symptoms of an ear infection?
Those who suffer from ear infections may experience ear pain, fluid drainage, hearing difficulty, fussiness, headache, fever and loss of appetite.
How long do ear infections last?
Ear infections usually run their course within a few days and require nothing more than careful monitoring, along with over-the-counter medications to manage pain (and antibiotics if they are the result of a bacterial infection).
What can you do if ear infections don’t clear up?
Kids who experience frequent or persistent ear infections might be given ear tubes to assist with ventilation and drainage.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar treat Ear Infections?
Proponents of apple cider vinegar (ACV) claim it can be used to treat ear infections. There is no hard evidence to support this, but researchers have found that ACV has antimicrobial properties that can help neutralize bacteria and other microorganisms.
A 2018 study found that ACV was effective in preventing two types of bacteria commonly associated with ear infections, E. Coli and Staphylococcus aureus, from growing. Bacterial culture samples were prepared and combined with immune cells, and ACV was added.
Afterward, inflammation in the samples was considerably reduced. Scientists believe that high concentrations of acetic acid in apple cider vinegar help to reduce the severity of certain bacterial infections. Acetic acid has been shown to damage microbial cell walls in previous studies, lending credence to these findings.
Another study, published in 2017, determined that ACV has strong antibacterial properties, even in smaller concentrations, though it’s ability to combat viruses is less clear. Despite these promising results, human trials are needed to determine whether the benefits of ACV can be replicated in people.
Preparing an Apple Cider Vinegar Treatment
If you would like to try apple cider vinegar when treating an ear infection, check with an Augusta ear, nose and throat doctor first. If you’re given the green light, mix equal parts ACV and warm water and squeeze 4-5 drops of this mixture into your ear with a dropper.
Applying the ACV treatment
Tilt your head so it is facing the ceiling before applying, and keep it that way for a few minutes so the mixture can reach the ear canal. Tilt your head in the opposite direction so the mixture can drain out.
Make sure you always dilute and discontinue when needed
Always dilute the ACV with water; stronger concentrations can cause damage to the sensitive skin of the ear. Discontinue use at the first sign of irritation, and stick with conventional treatment if you are experiencing fluid drainage.
Consult your ENT specialist first
If you’d like more information on treating ear infections with ACV or are looking for additional remedies, call an ENT specialist in Augusta.