How to Ease Pressure in Ear

If you are suffering from ear pain related to pressure, known as ear barotrauma, it is usually due to a pressure level difference between the inside and outside of your eardrum. While the pressure difference can cause discomfort, the condition is quite common. Many people who have flown on airplanes, gone underwater, or suffer from allergies and congestion, have experienced ear pressure pain. Luckily, with a few home treatments, you can ease pain and pressure.

Things You'll Need

• Gum
• Hard candy
• Baby bottle
• Milk
• Antihistamine

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Instructions

• 1

  Yawn deeply. You should hear a slight popping in your ears if you have successfully equalized the pressure. According to Medline Plus, yawning opens the eustachian tube and allows air to flow through the middle ear, equalizing pressure on both sides of the eardrum. Once pressure is equalized, ear pain will be relieved.

• 2

  Chew a piece of gum for several minutes. The act of swallowing saliva while chewing gum may have the same affect as yawning deeply, balancing pressure in the ear. You may hear a popping in your ears.

• 3

  Gently pinch closed your nostrils with your fingers, closing your mouth. Inhale, though not too deeply. You should instantly hear your ears pop. Don't forget to exhale, as this may help equalize the pressure.

• 4

  Take an over-the-counter antihistamine. If a cold is causing the pressure imbalance in your ears, you may need to take an antihistamine that will relieve the pressure. If you are unsure which brand to select, ask your pharmacist.