Ear function is closely connected to sinus function. This is because the Eustachian tubes, whose function it is to drain the fluid and pressure from the middle part of the ear, open at the back of the nose in an area called the nasopharynx. When the sinus tissue is swollen, such as during an infection or allergic reaction, the swelling can block the Eustachian tubes and keep them from draining. That can cause pressure to build up in the ears.
Antibiotics
Sinus infections can cause swelling of the nasal and sinus tissue and block off the Eustachian tubes. That causes pressure and fluid to build up in the ears. That fluid can also get infected, leading to ear infections. Antibiotics are often necessary to fight both the sinus and subsequent ear infections. Bacteria that cause the infections are often in a category called Gram-positive. Amoxicillin is a common antibiotic to use for those infections because it works well against Gram-positive bacteria and has a low risk of side effects. It is taken orally and can be in either a pill or liquid form.
Decongestants
Because nasal and sinus tissue swelling often causes ear pressure, decongestant medications can provide effective relief. The medications can be in the form of either a nasal spray or a pill. They relieve pressure by constricting the blood vessels to the nasal and sinus tissues, which shrinks that tissue and decreases swelling. Once the swelling comes down, the Eustachian tubes open up; the fluid drains from the ear. Decongestants sold over-the-counter (OTC) can be effective.
Allergy Medications
Because allergies can cause the sinus tissues to become swollen, they can be a major contributor to ear pressure. Luckily, medications exist that are effective at treating nasal allergy symptoms. Oral antihistamines, such as Allegra, or topical nasal sprays, such as Flonase, can be used alone, or in combination, to decrease allergy symptoms.
Ear Tubes
Insertion of ear tubes is a common surgical procedure, especially in children. Tubes are usually inserted due to persistent or recurring middle ear infections and help equalize the ear pressure. They function to prevent infections from forming again, and if they do, they are generally much milder than before the tubes were inserted. The tubes may become necessary in individuals with anatomic sinus abnormalities or severe sinus problems where medications fail to improve the symptoms of sinus-related ear pressure.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Ear Infections
- "Pediatrics;" Otitis Media with Effusion; January 2004
- Medline Plus: Ear Tube Insertion
