There are numerous reasons for the rise in ear infections in the elderly. Seniors’ ear infections occasionally resolve on their own. A period of treatment is typically necessary, though. Some seniors prefer to treat their ailments with natural cures and other methods. But typically, conventional medical treatment is necessary. One can use both at the same time because natural treatments for ear infections in the elderly supplement standard medical care.
This article discusses some tried and successful ways in which seniors can prevent ear infections.
Ways to Avoid and Manage Ear Infections in Seniors
In some instances, seniors can prevent ear infections. Due to the effects of aging, it is not always feasible to prevent ear infections in seniors. The majority of the time, however, maintaining healthy senior habits and fundamental cleanliness will keep the ears in good condition.
Avoid Smoking Completely
The throat is linked to the nose and ears. A respiratory sickness brought on by smoking could spread to the ears and infect them. So, stay away from smoking in your senior years. Even without an infection, inflammation can result in ear infections. Smoking can cause ENT canal inflammation in some people. Smoking also harms the ENT tract’s sensitive lining.
Be Careful After Showering or Swimming
After showering or swimming, clean and pat dry the outer portion of the ear. To prevent water from dripping into the ear, long, damp hair should be dried or pulled back. When showering or swimming, wear earplugs. Prevent water from entering the ear canal. Infections can be brought on by untreated water or pure water that becomes trapped behind the eardrum. Seek assistance from a caregiver if you are in an assisted living facility.
Clean Your Ears Carefully
For many individuals, this is a major problem. Everyone, regardless of age, should clear their ears with cotton swabs. Ear cleaning with cotton buds (earbuds, q-tips) is not advised. The Mayo Clinic recommends the use of specific lubricants to soften earwax. But for seniors, going to the doctor first is definitely the best course of action. Any object inserted into the ear canal, including q-tips, hairpins, and paperclips, risks damaging the sensitive skin there or infecting it.
Eat Healthy
Eat less of the foods that inflame your body or make your phlegm accumulate because they may make your respiratory system, sinuses, or ears infected. For some individuals, food triggers for allergies may include dairy products, bread, red meat, and eggs. If you are in a senior independent living facility, talk to your dietitian for designing a menu that caters to your health parameters.
Additionally, avoid sticking your fingertips in or close to your ears. Also, don’t put foreign objects in your ears if any itchiness is felt. Wash your hands regularly to prevent the transmission of bacteria and germs. Prior to receiving any ear care, this is particularly crucial.
Adults, particularly seniors should not disregard ear infections. An ear infection rarely has severe effects on young children, but it can harm hearing in seniors. In addition, if left untreated, an ear infection in a senior could travel to other areas of the body.
