How to Clear Ear Congestion

Ear congestion can be a frustrating condition that often arises after a case of cold or allergies, when the eustachian tubes--the pipelines between the middle ear and the back of your nose--become obstructed. According to the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, other potential causes of ear congestion can include infections and rapid changes in air pressure. Symptoms include muffled hearing, stuffiness in the ear and, in some cases, ear pain.

Instructions

• 1

  Chew or swallow while pinching your nose to equalize the air pressure between your middle ear and the outer ear. This difference in air pressure is what usually causes muffled hearing, because the eardrums are unable to vibrate properly.

• 2

  Open the eustachian tubes by blowing out air while keeping your nostrils and mouth closed. This will redirect the air back through the eustachian tubes and may help open up any blockage.

• 3

  Use a nasal spray or an oral decongestant from your local pharmacy. These treatments aim to return air flow back into the eustachian tube to relieve pressure. Talk to your pharmacist to decide which option is the most appropriate for you.

• 4

  Try taking antihistamines if you think your ear congestion results from allergies. Antihistamines block the chemicals released by an allergic reaction and reduce the severity of congestion, sneezing, runny noses and other related symptoms.

• 5

  Arrange an appointment with an ear-nose-throat (ENT) doctor if all else fails and congestion persists. The persistence of ear congestion may indicate other conditions such as an ear infection, which require treatment with prescription antibiotics such as amoxicillin. Depending on your condition, the doctor can also insert a ventilation tube in an attempt to drain any fluids from the eardrum.