Q: My ears feel “blocked” because of a head cold? What can I do? – Lisa P.
A: Sinus congestion from a head cold or allergies can temporarily make the ears feel clogged. Here are a few suggestions for what you can do to relieve this:
RELATED: Is It A Sinus Infection Or Cold?
- Take medication to clear ear blockage after a cold. You don’t need to continue taking cold medication after cold symptoms improve. Purchase a decongestant and begin taking this drug to help break up mucus and unblock the ears. Use as directed.
- Run a humidifier to produce moisture to help break up congestion. Blocked ears may respond to extra moisture in the air. Use a humidifier or sit in the bathroom while the shower runs to reduce ear congestion.
- Take in plenty of liquids to hydrate your body. Fluids are also useful because they help thin mucus. Drink plenty of water, juices and teas to get rid of remnants of mucus after a head cold.
- Move the jaw muscles to help “pop” congested ears. Popping the ears is a quick way to clear blockage. Chew gum or open and close your mouth several times to work the jaw muscles and unblock ears. Another tactic to pop the ears involves plugging the nose and gently blowing to help balance pressure in the ears.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Sinus Problems center for more articles.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ‘Ask Dr. Renee’. Follow me on Twitter @AskDrRenee and on my website.
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