Plugged or clogged ears is a condition which is often associated with common cold or upper respiratory tract infection namely sinusitis. Clogging of the ear can be associated with discomfort which is often self limiting and mild to moderate in intensity. However occasionally clogged ear can be associated with severe discomfort and needs to be managed effectively to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Clogged Ears From Cold
Clogging of the ears is associated with cold or sinusitis. This is due to the blockage of the Eustachian tube which connects the nasal passages to the inner ear.
Due to common cold or sinusitis, the Eustachian tube fails to balance the air pressures on either sides which in turn results in clogging or blocking of the ear. The failure to balance air pressure on either side of the tube may result in retraction and pulling of the ear drum which may be associated with muffled sound. The condition can be often very distressing and associated with severe pain.
In addition to clogging of ears due to cold, the other common cause of clogging is air travel or scuba diving, both of which are associated with change in air pressures, which result in clogging of the ears.
Though relatively uncommon, clogging of the ear can also be associated with reduced auditory capacities and can interfere with the ability of an individual to hear clearly.
Natural Remedies For Plugged Or Clogged Ears From Cold
The treatment for plugged ears depends exclusively on the underlying cause. If the plugging of the ear is associated with cold or sinusitis, effective management of the underlying disorder can alleviate symptoms associated with plugged ear. However, in addition of cold there are several other reasons,
- Alteration in external air pressure can result in clogging or plugging of the ears. In such situations a simple maneuver can help unplug the ear. Close your mouth and nose using your fingers and then gently blow into your mouth, so that the air is diverted into the ears. This can help in unclogging of the ears. Avoid applying too much pressure, which may actually result in trauma or damage to the ear drums
- Excessive accumulation of wax in the ears can result in plugged ears. Wax removal can help unplug the ear and reduce the discomfort. A couple of drops of olive oil into the ear canal can help liquefy the wax and aid in its easy removal.
There are very simple techniques to effectively manage cold and unclog the ears.
- Steam inhalation is considered effective in managing sinusitis and also treating clogged ears. Steam inhalation helps in decongestion of the nasal mucosa, which makes it easy to balance air pressure on either sides of the Eustachian tube which unclogs the ears
- Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C, which in turn helps enhance immunity level of the body naturally which in turn helps fight common cold and hasten de-clogging of the ears
- Avoid ice-creams, cold drinks, beverages, etc which can increase susceptibility to the condition
I always get clogged ears together with pain when I am travelling in an airplane. The best remedy my friend told was to chew gum when you feel clogged sensation. It works well all the time. Since there is excess production of wax in my ears, I make a point to clean my ears regularly.