Many people experience the uncomfortable sensation of clogged ears when unwell with a cold, flu, or seasonal allergies. This often accompanies nasal congestion, making hearing difficult or causing pressure and fullness. Understanding why this occurs and how to find relief is helpful.
Why Ears Clog When Sick
The primary reason ears clog during an illness relates to the Eustachian tubes. These narrow passages connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, behind the nasal cavity. Their function is to equalize pressure between the outside environment and the middle ear, and to drain fluid from the middle ear. Normally, these tubes remain closed, opening only during actions like swallowing or yawning to allow air exchange and fluid drainage.
During a cold, flu, or sinus infection, the mucous membranes lining the Eustachian tubes can become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation, along with increased mucus production, can obstruct these tubes. When blocked, air cannot properly enter or leave the middle ear, leading to a pressure imbalance. This causes a feeling of fullness or muffled sensation, as the eardrum cannot vibrate freely. The close proximity of nasal passages to the Eustachian tube openings means congestion in one area often impacts the other.
Simple Ways to Find Relief
Several simple techniques can help alleviate clogged ears. Yawning widely or swallowing repeatedly activates muscles that open the Eustachian tubes, allowing air to move and equalize pressure. Chewing gum also stimulates these muscles through jaw motion, helping to unblock the tubes. These gentle maneuvers are effective for mild ear pressure.
A common method for equalizing ear pressure is the Valsalva maneuver, performed by gently pinching the nostrils shut and then attempting to exhale through the nose with the mouth closed. This action creates positive pressure in the nasal cavity, which can push air into the Eustachian tubes, helping them to open. It is important to perform this maneuver gently to avoid damaging the eardrum.
Steam inhalation can also provide relief by helping to thin mucus and reduce swelling in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes. This can be achieved by leaning over a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over the head to trap steam, or by taking a warm, steamy shower. Applying a warm compress to the outer ear can provide comfort and help relax surrounding tissues.
Over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays can reduce swelling in the nasal passages, which may indirectly help open the Eustachian tubes. Use these sprays cautiously and only for a few days, as prolonged use can lead to rebound congestion, worsening symptoms. Staying hydrated by drinking fluids also helps keep mucus thin and flowing, preventing further blockage.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many cases of clogged ears due to illness resolve with home care, certain symptoms indicate a need for medical evaluation. Persistent or worsening ear pain warrants a doctor’s visit. The presence of a fever, especially if high or accompanied by chills, alongside ear symptoms, suggests a potential infection requiring treatment.
Other concerning signs include dizziness or vertigo, which can disrupt balance and indicate a more serious inner ear issue. Any fluid drainage from the ear canal, such as pus or blood, should prompt immediate medical attention, as this could signify a ruptured eardrum or an infection. Sudden changes in hearing, including a significant decrease or complete loss in one ear, also require prompt evaluation.
If home remedies do not provide relief after a few days, or if ear clogging persists for more than a week or two after other illness symptoms resolve, consult a healthcare provider. A clogged ear accompanied by a very high fever or signs of severe illness, such as extreme fatigue or confusion, should also be quickly assessed by a medical professional.