Blocked Ears from Cold: What to Do

Blocked or clogged ears can manifest in various ways, each signalling potential issues with your auditory health.

Muffled hearing 

Sounds may feel distant or muffled, akin to being underwater. This can impact your ability to comprehend conversations and sounds clearly, necessitating increased volume levels.

Muffled hearing can lead to conversation misunderstandings and may require higher volume levels on devices, affecting your overall auditory experience.

Discomfort or pain

A sense of fullness or pressure in the ear may escalate to sharp pain if the blockage worsens or an ear infection sets in. The discomfort can range from mild annoyance to severe pain, affecting daily activities.

Severe discomfort or pain can disrupt sleep and daily routines, potentially indicating a more serious underlying issue that requires medical attention.

Colds and Tinnitus

Experiencing ringing, buzzing, or humming noises unrelated to external sounds could indicate a connection to colds.

Tinnitus can be distracting and impact concentration, sleep, and overall well-being. Explore more about this phenomenon on our Tinnitus page.

Ear pressure

A sensation of pressure or fullness, similar to experiences during a flight, may impact comfort, balance, and hearing.

Ear pressure can be uncomfortable and may affect your balance, potentially causing dizziness.

Colds and itchy ears

Mucus accumulation due to nasal congestion can lead to itchy ears. This condition may expose the ears to bacterial or viral contamination, potentially causing otitis.

Itchy ears may lead to an ear infection, impacting overall ear health and requiring prompt attention.

Hearing loss

In severe cases, hearing sensitivity may temporarily decrease.

Hearing loss can interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to participate in conversations, listen to media, or even notice sounds that indicate danger. Learn more about hearing loss here.

Fluid drainage

Fluid draining from the ear, especially if an ear infection develops, could indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention.

While fluid drainage can relieve pressure, it may indicate a more serious condition, such as an ear infection, requiring medical attention.

Vertigo or dizziness

A sense of spinning or loss of balance may occur if the blockage affects the inner ear.

Vertigo or dizziness can be dangerous, leading to falls or injuries, and may significantly impair mobility. Seek prompt attention for any such symptoms to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

Blocked ears often accompany colds, but proactive steps can minimise their impact.

Managing cold symptoms

Effectively managing cold symptoms is crucial in preventing blocked or clogged ears. Adequate rest and sleep are essential to bolster your immune system's response to the cold virus. 

Over-the-counter remedies, such as decongestants and nasal sprays, can help alleviate congestion and reduce the likelihood of ear blockage. Additionally, practising good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, can prevent the spread of germs and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

Stay Hydrated 

Staying hydrated is a key preventive measure against blocked ears. Drinking plenty of fluids helps maintain the proper function of the Eustachian tubes, preventing them from becoming clogged. Incorporating a humidifier into your environment is another beneficial step. 

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, preventing the mucous membranes in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes from drying out, reducing the risk of blockages.

Avoid Flying

Certain activities can exacerbate ear blockage, especially during a cold. Flying, with its rapid changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing, can worsen ear blockage. If air travel is unavoidable, employing techniques like swallowing or chewing gum can help equalise pressure.

Similarly, scuba diving poses a risk, subjecting the ears to significant pressure changes. It's advisable to ensure your ears are clear before engaging in diving activities to minimise the potential for ear blockage.

Warm compress

A warm compress is a simple yet effective method to alleviate ear blockage caused by a cold. To use a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water and gently press it against the affected ear. 

The warmth helps soothe the Eustachian tubes, promoting better drainage and relieving congestion. Hold the compress against the ear for about 20 minutes, ensuring not to use excessive heat to prevent any discomfort.

Nasal decongestants

Over-the-counter nasal decongestants can be instrumental in clearing blocked ears associated with a cold. These medications work by reducing nasal congestion, which, in turn, helps to open up the Eustachian tubes. 

Follow the recommended dosage instructions provided on the product packaging. It's essential not to overuse nasal decongestants, as prolonged use may lead to dependency or worsening of symptoms.

Steam inhalation

Steam inhalation is a simple and natural remedy for relieving congestion and clearing blocked ears. Boil a pot of water and carefully inhale the steam. To enhance its effectiveness, consider adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water.

The steam helps to moisten and open the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, facilitating the drainage of mucus. Cover your head with a towel to create a tent-like effect, trapping the steam for maximum benefit.

Ear drops

Ear drops can be a safe and efficient way to clear blocked ears. Over-the-counter ear drops, specifically designed to address earwax or congestion, can help soften the wax or break down mucus. 

Follow the instructions on the product packaging, and administer the drops as directed. It's crucial to use ear drops cautiously, ensuring that the eardrum is intact and not introducing any foreign objects into the ear canal.

While home remedies can often provide relief, knowing when to seek professional help for blocked ears caused by a cold is crucial.

Severe pain: intense or sharp ear pain requires prompt medical attention. It could be a sign of infection or other underlying issues that need professional assessment.

Persistent symptoms: if your symptoms persist or worsen despite home remedies, consult a doctor. Prolonged blockage, hearing loss, or ongoing discomfort may indicate a more complex issue requiring expert evaluation.

Fluid discharge: unusual fluid drainage from the ears could signal an infection. Seek medical advice to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Vertigo or dizziness: severe dizziness or a sense of spinning accompanying blocked ears may indicate an inner ear problem. Consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination.

Possible complications

Neglecting proper treatment for blocked ears can lead to potential complications, including:

Ear infections: untreated congestion and blockage create a conducive environment for bacterial or viral infections, resulting in symptoms like increased pain, fever, or a feeling of fullness.

Hearing loss: prolonged blockage or untreated underlying issues can contribute to temporary or even permanent hearing loss. Timely intervention is crucial to prevent long-term consequences.

Balance issues: inner ear disturbances caused by prolonged blockage may affect balance, leading to vertigo or a sense of unsteadiness.

Your ear health is a vital aspect of your overall well-being. Timely intervention is key to preventing complications and ensuring a swift return to optimal hearing. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, don't hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional to book your hearing test. Remember, your ears deserve the same attention as any other part of your body. Prioritise your health, and seek the support you need to enjoy a life filled with clear and comfortable hearing.