How to Ease Pressure in Ear
If you are suffering from ear pain related to pressure, known as ear barotrauma, it is usually due to a pressure level difference between the inside and outside of your eardrum. While the pressure difference can cause discomfort, the condition is quite common. Many people who have flown on airplanes, gone underwater, or suffer from allergies and congestion, have experienced ear pressure pain. Luckily, with a few home treatments, you can ease pain and pressure.
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Instructions
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Yawn deeply. You should hear a slight popping in your ears if you have successfully equalized the pressure. According to Medline Plus, yawning opens the eustachian tube and allows air to flow through the middle ear, equalizing pressure on both sides of the eardrum. Once pressure is equalized, ear pain will be relieved.
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2
Chew a piece of gum for several minutes. The act of swallowing saliva while chewing gum may have the same affect as yawning deeply, balancing pressure in the ear. You may hear a popping in your ears.
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3
Gently pinch closed your nostrils with your fingers, closing your mouth. Inhale, though not too deeply. You should instantly hear your ears pop. Don't forget to exhale, as this may help equalize the pressure.
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Take an over-the-counter antihistamine. If a cold is causing the pressure imbalance in your ears, you may need to take an antihistamine that will relieve the pressure. If you are unsure which brand to select, ask your pharmacist.
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Tips & Warnings
Whenever you know that you will be doing an activity that may involve pressure changes (such as flying or driving through altitude changes), chew on a piece of gum or suck on a piece of hard candy. This will keep you swallowing during the pressure changes and may prevent barotrauma altogether. If you are with a child, allow the child to drink from a bottle or nurse during altitude changes.
If the barotrauma is severe and the pain persists for several days, you may have a more serious infection. Contact your doctor, as he or she may need to give you a prescription antihistamine or decongestive medication. Rarely, surgery may be required.
