ear blocked due to cold home remedy - #16316
I am dealing with this annoying problem where my ear is blocked due to cold. It started a few days ago when I caught a nasty cold – you know, typical stuff - cough, runny nose, all that. But then, outta nowhere, I noticed my ear blocked due to cold and it’s driving me nuts! Feels like I'm underwater or something. I tried a couple of things that I found online about ear blocked due to cold home remedies but nothing worked that great. I used a humidifier and took some steam, but the pressure is still there. I’m not sure if I should keep waiting it out or try something else. I read about maneuvers like the Valsalva, but I'm kinda nervous about doing them wrong! I even tried putting a warm cloth against the ear – yeah, that didn’t help much either. Anyone have success with a proven ear blocked due to cold home remedy? I don’t wanna go to the doctor yet if I can fix this at home. Just looking for something real that works! Thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
If your ear feels blocked due to a cold, it’s usually because of Eustachian tube dysfunction, where mucus or inflammation complicates equalizing pressure in your ear. You’re already on the right track using a humidifier and steam to reduce congestion, but let’s explore a few more steps you might try. The Valsalva maneuver, while it can sound a bit daunting, is actually worth trying. To perform it, take a deep breath, pinch your nostrils, close your mouth and gently blow like you’re blowing your nose. This can help equalize the pressure in your ears. Just be gentle to avoid causing any harm. Another option could be over-the-counter decongestants—these help reduce nasal congestion and might relieve ear symptoms too. However, if you have heart problems or high blood pressure, you may want to skip these, as they can raise blood pressure. Sometimes chewing gum or yawning repeatedly can help pop your ears as well—simple but surprisingly effective if the tube isn’t too blocked. Continue with warm compresses; place them over your ear a few times a day to potentially ease the block by reducing inflammation. While home remedies might bring relief, if symptoms persist, worsen, or you start experiencing severe pain, dizziness, or hearing loss, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider. Prolonged blockage could hint at an ear infection or other issues needing professional evaluation. Finally, always proceed carefully with ear issues to avoid further complications, and never insert anything into your ear canal.
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