If you are getting over a cold or suffering from seasonal allergies or sinusitis, you may experience congestion in your ears caused by a buildup of fluid or swelling in the middle ear. MayoClinic.com describes the condition as feeling as though the ears are plugged, hearing muffled sounds and possibly ear pain. If pain is severe or if symptoms do not resolve with home remedies within a few weeks, see your physician or an ear, nose and throat specialist.
Heat
Applying heat to your blocked ear can encourage good blood flow and summon extra white blood cells to the area, says "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies." Take a hot shower, allowing the warm water to stream over your ear and head. A hot water bottle or a heating pad can have the same effect. Apply heat to the ear for up to 20 minutes.
Fluids
Scientists at Rutgers University recommend drinking a lot of fluids if you have ear congestion caused by a cold. The extra liquids will help your body expel excess mucous and will discourage it from settling in your ear. Drink hot tea or chicken broth to bring heat to the area and loosen congestion. The salt in chicken broth can relieve any dizziness associated with your cold as well, according to Rutgers. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which can be dehydrating.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods and drinks can cause your nose to run, reducing the pressure and fluid accumulation in your ears. Try spicy soups, as these have the added benefits of heat and providing extra fluids.
Humidity
Inhaling steam can help break up ear congestion. Slowly sip hot tea or soup, breathing in the steam through your nose. Inhale the steam of a hot shower or run a cool mist humidifier in your bedroom. "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies" suggests using nasal saline spray to keep your nasal passages moist.
OTC Medications
If natural home remedies do not give you enough relief, take over-the-counter medications to ease your symptoms. Decongestants can shrink swollen membranes, temporarily relieving ear congestion, says Rutgers University. Antihistamines can relieve ear congestion associated with hay fever or seasonal allergies, but will not help if you are suffering from the common cold. Read all label instructions carefully, and if you have health problems or are taking any other medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medications.
