Clogged Ear Cold

The best way to clear a clogged ear is to reduce the underlying congestion. You can try several natural methods to encourage the Eustachian tubes to open:

While you generally have to wait for the cold virus to run its course, there are several ways to help open the Eustachian tube and relieve the pressure.

The Eustachian tube is a narrow canal that connects the back of your nose to your middle ear. Its primary job is to regulate air pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear. Under normal circumstances, this tube opens and closes when you swallow or yawn to keep the pressure equalized on both sides of your eardrum.

Aside from the feeling of "fullness," a cold-related ear blockage may involve: or sounds that seem distant. Popping or crackling sounds when you swallow or chew.

In many cases, clogged ears clear up once the cold subsides. However, you should seek medical attention if:

Think of this tube as a tiny pressure-release valve that connects your middle ear to the back of your throat. Its job is to drain fluid and keep air pressure equal on both sides of your eardrum.