Fluid and pressure buildup in the middle part of the ear is a common condition. When the fluid collects behind the ear drum, it can cause earaches and a sensation of stopped up ears. Several different mechanisms can cause this problem. An infection can cause fluid to build up behind the ear drum and cause earaches and stopped up ears. Also, anything that blocks the eustachian tubes, such as nasal or sinus swelling from allergies, can also cause earaches and stopped up ears.
Antibiotics
Middle-ear infections often cause earaches and stopped up ears. Viruses typically cause milder infections that resolve on their own. Bacteria, however, cause more severe infections that often require antibiotics. Antibiotics, especially amoxicillin in liquid or pill form, are prescribed to treat the bacterial infection. In most cases, clearing up the infection will take care of the earache and stopped up ear, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Decongestants
Nasal and sinus tissue swelling can cause ear fluid and pressure, which can cause earaches and stopped up ears. Decongestants, in spray or tablet-form available over the counter, can provide relief. They constrict blood vessels to the nasal and sinus tissues, which shrinks the tissue and decreases swelling. Once the swelling comes down, the Eustachian tubes open up, and the fluid can drain from the ear. According to MedlinePlus, decongestants can also provide relief from earaches due to pressure changes during airplane flight by shrinking down the tissues around the eustachian tubes and making it easier for the eustachian tubes to relieve the pressure in the ears.
Ear Tubes
Inserting ear tubes is the most direct way to drain fluid from the ear. Since it is the fluid that commonly causes earaches and stopped up ears, the procedure can provide relief from those symptoms. According to MedlinePlus, it is a simple surgical procedure often done on children who have recurring middle ear infections. Improved drainage usually prevents infections from developing again and decreases the severity of any infections that do develop. The procedure usually takes only 10 to 20 minutes. Possible but unlikely side effects include ear drum scarring, persistent ear drainage and ear drum perforation.
