When a cold takes hold, it often brings the bothersome sensation of a “plugged ear.” This feeling can range from mild pressure to a significant muffling of sound, making everyday activities uncomfortable. This common complaint arises from the body’s response to viral infection. While temporary, understanding its origins and management can provide relief.
Understanding the Cause
A plugged ear during a cold involves the Eustachian tubes, small passages connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat and nose. These tubes equalize air pressure inside the ear with the external environment and drain fluid from the middle ear. Normally, they open and close automatically, like when swallowing or yawning, to maintain balanced pressure and allow proper eardrum function.
During a cold, inflammation and increased mucus in the nasal passages and throat can extend to the Eustachian tubes. This swelling and mucus buildup can block the tubes. When blocked, air pressure in the middle ear cannot equalize, leading to fullness, pressure, or muffled hearing. This dysfunction can trap fluid behind the eardrum, contributing to the “plugged” sensation.
At-Home Relief Strategies
Various methods can alleviate plugged ear discomfort by encouraging Eustachian tubes to open and drain. Simple actions like swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum activate muscles that open these tubes, helping equalize pressure. A gentle “pop” indicates the tubes have opened.
A gentle Valsalva maneuver is also effective. To perform, take a deep breath, close your mouth, pinch nostrils shut, and gently attempt to blow air out through your nose. This creates pressure to unblock Eustachian tubes, but do this softly to avoid discomfort or harm.
Applying a warm compress to the affected ear provides comfort and helps reduce Eustachian tube swelling, promoting better drainage. Soak a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water, wring out excess, and hold against the ear for 5 to 20 minutes.
Steam inhalation is beneficial, as warm, moist air helps loosen mucus and reduce inflammation in nasal passages and Eustachian tubes. Lean over a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over your head to trap steam, breathing deeply for 10-15 minutes, or take a hot shower.
Over-the-counter nasal decongestants can reduce congestion in nasal passages, helping clear Eustachian tubes. Use these according to package instructions, for only a few days, to prevent rebound congestion. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus, making it easier to drain.
When to Consult a Doctor
While a plugged ear from a cold often resolves as symptoms subside, certain signs warrant professional medical attention. Severe or persistent ear pain, especially if worsening, could signal an ear infection. An ear infection (otitis media) can occur when fluid trapped in the middle ear becomes a breeding ground for bacteria or viruses.
Other concerning symptoms include fluid discharge from the ear, which could indicate infection or a ruptured eardrum. Sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus) accompanying the plugged sensation also warrant medical advice.
If symptoms do not improve after a few days of self-care, or worsen, a doctor can assess the situation to rule out complications. Untreated Eustachian tube dysfunction or ear infections can lead to prolonged hearing loss or balance problems.