Finishing the medicine will keep the ear infection from flaring up again. These medications usually control the pain within 1 to 2 hours. Earaches tend to hurt more at bedtime. To help ease the pain, you can put an ice bag or ice wrapped in a wet washcloth over the ear. This may decrease the swelling and pressure inside.
Some physicians recommend a heating pad instead.
Remove the cold or heat in 20 minutes to prevent frostbite or a burn. Restrictions Your child can go outside and does not need to cover the ears. Your child can return to school or day care when he or she is feeling better and the fever is gone. Ear infections are not contagious. Ear recheck Your physician will schedule a return appointment in 2 to 3 weeks for your child.