There are numerous over-the-counter (OTC), prescription, and natural treatments for ear congestion. However, the exact treatment depends on the underlying cause. Show Ear congestion refers to a feeling of fullness in the ears. A person may feel that their ears are clogged or blocked up. This can also lead to hearing difficulties, dizziness, and ear pain. In this article, we discuss different methods of treating ear congestion based on the cause. Conditions that lead to inflammation or congestion in the sinuses can also lead to ear congestion. Examples of conditions that affect the sinuses and the ears include:
TreatmentTreatments for sinus-related ear congestion vary, depending on the underlying cause. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most sinus infections resolve independently, without medical treatment. However, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if a person has a bacterial sinus infection. Ear congestion related to sinusitis or viral infections, such as a cold or flu, will go away once the underlying condition or cause of inflammation resolves. Avoiding irritants and allergens that trigger sinusitis can also help relieve ear congestion. To manage the symptoms of sinus conditions and ear congestion, a person can:
Allergic rhinitis, or nasal allergies, occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the environment, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. A 2019 article notes that allergic rhinitis can also affect the ears. People with allergic rhinitis may experience:
Allergic rhinitis can also lead to:
TreatmentTo relieve ear congestion that occurs due to allergies, a person can take allergy medications, such as decongestants and antihistamines. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NICCIH) have found some evidence that suggests the following complementary treatments may help treat allergic rhinitis:
The NICCIH also list probiotics, honey, and pine bark extract as potential treatment options, but the results of current studies provide conflicting or weak evidence to support their efficacy. Elevation changes can lead to ear-popping. This occurs when the air pressure outside the ear is different to the air pressure inside the eustachian tubes. The eustachian tubes are narrow canals that connect the middle ear to the upper throat and nasal cavity. Changes in air pressure occur during air travel, deep-sea diving, or whenever a person travels to higher or lower altitudes. TreatmentTo relieve ear congestion due to elevation changes, a person can try:
If at all possible, a person should descend or ascend slowly to allow the eustachian tubes time to equalize the pressure in the middle ear. They can also try performing the Valsalva and Toynbee maneuvers. An older 2011 comparative study consisting of 35 volunteers found both maneuvers had a success rate of 51.7%. Learn more about how to safely pop the ears here. Valsalva maneuver
A person should be cautious when performing the Valsalva maneuver to avoid rupturing the eardrum. Toynbee maneuver
A person may find that it is helpful to swallow a mouthful of water. Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a waxy substance that the ear canal produces. Having some earwax is good. It helps clean and protect the ear canal. However, too much earwax can lead to a condition called cerumen impaction. People with excess earwax or cerumen impaction may experience the following symptoms:
TreatmentIt is important to note that people should not perform ear candling. This is because it is ineffective and may cause injury. A person can use OTC earwax drops or earwax removal kits. People can remove excess earwax at home with the following tips: Hydrogen peroxide ear dropsWhen using ear drops, it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging. Typically, a person inserts up to five drops in the ear once or twice per day. They can do this for 3–7 days. Learn more about hydrogen peroxide for earwax impaction here. Almond or olive oilAccording to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), a person can put two or three drops of almond or olive oil in the ear. They should do this twice per day for a few days. Over 2 weeks, the earwax should fall out of the ear, especially during sleep when a person is lying down. IrrigationA person may prefer a healthcare professional to perform ear irrigation. However, they can perform an ear irrigation at home. Learn more about how to perform ear irrigation at home here. Ear infections can also lead to ear congestion. Ear infections occur when a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection develops in the middle ear. The infection leads to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the eustachian tube. Fluid buildup can cause a feeling of fullness or congestion in the ear. Anyone can get an ear infection. However, they are most common in children. Symptoms of an ear infection include:
TreatmentSome ear infections resolve on their own, without medical treatment. However, bacterial middle ear infections may require antibiotics. Plenty of rest and drinking clear fluids, such as water or tea, may help an ear infection heal faster. A person can use OTC medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve pain and fevers. Doctors can treat fungal ear infections with topical antifungal medications. They can also remove fungi with a small vacuum. This procedure is known as ear aspiration. Meniere’s disease is an inner ear disorder that causes severe dizziness, or vertigo, tinnitus, and ear congestion. The symptoms of Meniere’s disease occur when fluid builds up in the labyrinth of the inner ear. The labyrinth consists of semicircular canals that help regulate balance, and the cochlea, which is responsible for hearing. The exact cause of Meniere’s disease remains unknown. However, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) state that people develop this disorder as a result of:
TreatmentPeople can treat Meniere’s disease with prescription drugs, such as:
Alternative treatments for Meniere’s disease include:
Other causes of ear congestion include:
People can often treat ear congestion with home remedies and OTC medications. However, a person may want to speak with a doctor about their ear congestion if:
Ear congestion can resolve on its own. Causes of ear congestion can include earwax compaction, changes in altitude, infections, and allergies. While some causes of ear congestion do not require medical intervention, people should contact a doctor if their symptoms persist or if they experience symptoms of a severe ear infection, such as:
How long do clogged ears last after sinus infection?Ears that are clogged from water or air pressure may be resolved quickly. Infections and earwax buildup can take up to a week to clear up. In some circumstances, especially with a sinus infection that you're having a hard time shaking, it can take longer than a week.
Why do my ears feel clogged with a sinus infection?Fluid and mucus flows from the ear to the back of the throat through this tube, where it's swallowed. But instead of flowing down the throat, fluid and mucus can sometimes become trapped in the middle ear and clog the ear. This blockage usually accompanies an infection, such as the common cold, influenza, or sinusitis.
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