How to Unclog Ears

Clearing stuffy ears can help you avoid ear pain and possible eardrum damage. Clogged ears can occur during colds, respiratory infections or conditions, or allergic reactions. Here are a few easy steps to help you clear your clogged ears.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Antihistamine medication
• Gum
• Shower or cups with steamy cloths
• Antihistamine
• Chewing gum

1. Prevent clogged ears before they happen. If you are prone to clogged ears, take an antihistamine in advance of potential allergic reactions or, when you have a cold, before lying down.
2. Swallow repeatedly or chew gum if your ears become clogged. These steps may help open the tubes from your ears to your throat and allow them to drain.
3. Determine if your ears are unclogged. If not, take a full breath of air and hold it. Pinch your nose closed and blow against it. You will feel a pressure change in your ears.
4. Take an antihistamine if they are still clogged.
5. Use steam heat to clear your ears. If you are at home, fill your shower room with steam or take a hot shower. Remain in the steam for at least 10 minutes. If you are on an airplane, ask the flight attendant for 2 cups with steamy cloths in them and place them over your ears for at least 10 minutes.
6. Jump up and down after the steam treatment, but make sure you don't slip on any wet surfaces. Jump several times while at the same time shaking your head back and forth as if doing an exaggerated “no” gesture
7. Try tipping and rolling your head until you feel the blockage in your ears begin to drain. Do not place your fingers or any other object into your ear canal.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are near an amusement park that has a roller coaster, go on it. The G-forces will accomplish the same thing as the steam and jumping treatment.
• See your physician if you experience hearing loss, severe ear pain, discharge from your ear, or a fever.