Ear congestion, or “plugged ears”, can be a difficult and uncomfortable symptom of a cold or other upper respiratory infection. It is caused by inflammation in the eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the nose and throat. Fortunately, there are several remedies you can try to alleviate this symptom.
Causes of Ear Congestion
Ear congestion is caused by inflammation in the eustachian tube, which is the tube that connects the ear to the nose and throat. This inflammation can be the result of allergies, a cold, or other upper respiratory infection.
Remedies for Ear Congestion
The good news is that there are several remedies you can try to alleviate ear congestion. These include:
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Taking a decongestant. Decongestants work by reducing the inflammation in the eustachian tube and can provide relief from ear congestion.
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Doing a Valsalva maneuver. This is a technique where you breathe in deeply, pinch your nose shut, and then try to blow out through your pinched nose. This helps to equalize the pressure in the eustachian tube and can provide relief from ear congestion.
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Using a warm compress. Applying a warm compress to the outer ear can help to reduce inflammation and provide relief from ear congestion.
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Taking an antihistamine. Antihistamines can help reduce inflammation in the eustachian tube and can provide relief from ear congestion.
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Doing nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation involves using a saline solution to flush out the nasal passages, which can help reduce inflammation in the eustachian tube and provide relief from ear congestion.
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Taking steam inhalation. Taking steam inhalation can help to reduce inflammation in the eustachian tube and provide relief from ear congestion.
Ear congestion can be a difficult and uncomfortable symptom of a cold or other upper respiratory infection. Fortunately, there are several remedies you can try to alleviate this symptom. Be sure to consult with your doctor before trying any of these remedies to make sure they are right for you.
