Ear pressure is a common, uncomfortable sensation that often accompanies respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. This feeling of fullness or blockage can lead to muffled hearing or mild pain. While it cannot be cured instantly, several practical steps can provide relief. This article explores the biological source of this discomfort and provides actionable at-home and over-the-counter methods to manage it.
The Mechanism Behind COVID-Related Ear Pressure
The sensation of ear pressure often originates from Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). This tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and the nasal cavity, working to equalize pressure and drain fluid secretions. When the body fights a viral infection like COVID-19, it produces inflammation and congestion in the upper respiratory tract.
This swelling and excess mucus can cause the Eustachian tube’s opening to become blocked or narrowed. When the tube cannot open properly, the air pressure in the middle ear cannot equalize with the outside environment. This pressure difference causes the eardrum to bulge inward, resulting in the characteristic feeling of fullness, blockage, or a painful popping sensation. The symptom is a secondary effect of the widespread inflammation the virus triggers in the mucous membranes.
Immediate Physical Relief Techniques
Simple physical actions can help “pop” the ears by temporarily forcing the Eustachian tube to open. One effective technique is the Valsalva maneuver, which involves closing your mouth, pinching your nostrils shut, and gently attempting to exhale air. The resulting air pressure is directed into the Eustachian tubes, helping to equalize the pressure difference. This maneuver should be performed gently to avoid causing damage.
Swallowing, yawning, and chewing gum are also beneficial because the muscles used in these actions naturally open the Eustachian tubes. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on hard candy encourages frequent swallowing, which helps regulate middle ear pressure. Applying a warm compress, such as a hand towel soaked in warm water, against the ear can soothe discomfort and promote drainage. Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can also help loosen mucus and reduce swelling in the nasal passages, indirectly opening the affected tubes.
Using Over-the-Counter Medications for Relief
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications reduce the inflammation and congestion that trigger ear pressure. Oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and helps open the Eustachian tube. These should be used with caution, particularly by individuals with high blood pressure or certain heart conditions, and always adhere to dosage instructions.
Nasal decongestant sprays containing ingredients like oxymetazoline provide rapid, localized relief by shrinking swollen nasal membranes. Limit the use of these nasal sprays to no more than three days, as prolonged use can lead to rebound congestion, where the nasal swelling returns worse than before. For pain relief, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage discomfort. Antihistamines may be considered if allergies contribute to the congestion, though they are not a primary treatment for viral pressure.
When Symptoms Require Medical Evaluation
While ear pressure from a viral illness typically resolves on its own, certain symptoms warrant consulting a healthcare provider. Seek medical attention if the ear pressure or pain is severe, spikes suddenly, or is accompanied by discharge from the ear canal.
Persistent symptoms that do not improve after several days of home treatment also require a doctor’s consultation. Other red flags include sudden hearing loss, persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or significant balance issues and dizziness. These signs could indicate a secondary bacterial infection or a complication that requires specific medical intervention.