How to Unclog the Inner Ear or Eustachian Tube

Difficulty hearing or ringing in the ears from impacted earwax or fluid can be an annoying problem. Ear clogging is common with colds, allergies and sinusitis. The inner ear or eustachian tube will eventually unclog on its own. But for fast relief, you might consider employing a few natural remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to help irrigate the ears quickly and restore hearing.

Things You'll Need

• Ear drops
• Decongestant
• Gum

Instructions

1. Soften earwax with OTC ear cleaners. Apply a few drops (as directed) to both ears to help soften and remove wax and unclog the inner ear.

2. Loosen mucus in the inner ear. Excess mucus from allergies, colds and sinus problems can become lodged in the inner ear and block hearing. Take OTC decongestants to help get rid of mucus and unclog ears.

3. Put something hot against your ear to relieve congestion. Run a cloth under hot water and rest the wet cloth on the clogged ear. Steam from a shower or sauna is another effective remedy for unclogging the inner ear or eustachian tube.

4. Expel mucus through the nose. Blow your nose repeatedly to help loosen and remove mucus trapped in the inner ear.

5. Keep gum in your mouth. Chew a stick of sugarless gum t0o help pop and unclog the inner ear.

6. Lean your head to the side. Fluid can stay in the inner ear after swimming. Lie on your side to promote drainage and unclog the ear. Switch to the other side after a few minutes.

Tips & Warnings

• See a doctor if an earache accompanies a clogged ear, or if congestion persists for longer than 48 hours.

References

• Medline Plus: Ear Barotrauma
• Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford: Ear Congestion