1. Relieve Ear Congestion Symptoms
Your ears feel congested during a sinus infection because the sphenoid sinuses are irritated. These cavities are located in the front portion of the skull just above the ears. Sinuses normally ebb and flow with liquid, but when an infection is present, they can get clogged. Mucus production increases, heavy discharge forms and this material may alternately rest in and drain from the sinuses. Take note of which state you are in, and alternate which medication you choose.
When your nose is very runny, this precedes congestion. Clear up a runny nose with antihistamines, which you can buy without a prescription. These work to dry up mucus in the sinuses. If you feel stuffy and can't inhale or expel mucus, use over-the-counter decongestants instead.
2. Ease Ear and Associated Headache Pain
Congestion in the sphenoid sinuses may cause headache or earache pain in addition to breathing problems. Along with antihistamines and decongestants, you can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen for pain relief. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids with these medications.
If your head or ears are throbbing or your skin is sensitive to the touch, use a moist hot pack or warm gel pack to ease the pain. It also helps to lie still or at least refrain from bending over, which will increase blood flow to the head and pressure on the sinuses.
3. Treat the Cause of Sinus Infection
You want your entire sinus condition, not just the congestion, to go away for good. If it hasn't passed within a week, it may have bacterial rather than viral origins. See a doctor. If this is the case, a course of antibiotics can be prescribed that will subdue the infection and ensure that it doesn't spread to other areas of the body, such as the eye socket or brain. Consult your doctor if you take all of the medication and your congestion and other symptoms do not cease.
