If the blockage is due to thick mucus, physical maneuvers might not work until that mucus is thinned or loosened. Blocked ears from cold: what to do - Boots Hearingcare
Do not just pinch your nose and blow hard. That can cause pain or even a ruptured eardrum if you are too aggressive. Instead, try this: how to unblock an ear after a cold
If these methods don't work, there are other things that can be tried. Some people find that using ear drops or olive oil can help to loosen up any wax or debris that might be blocking the ear. Others try using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help to loosen up mucus and reduce congestion. If the blockage is due to thick mucus,