Ear Pressure Relief

Ear pressure problems can be caused due to a number of reasons. It is mainly developed due to malfunctioning of the Eustachian tube in the ear. The Eustachian tube connects middle ear to the back of the nose. This tube opens and closes while we swallow or yawn. This movement helps equalize the pressure between middle ear and the outside environment. If it does not work properly, negative pressure develops in the middle ear leading to problems like blocked ear, ear pain, slight hearing loss or ear pressure. This middle ear infection can be caused due to earwax buildup, cold, sinus, allergies or barotraumas.

Remedies for Ear Pressure Problem
Here are some home remedies for ear infections. You can try these to get ear pressure relief before visiting a doctor.

Remedy # 1: Try to yawn. Yawing will help in opening the Eustachian tubes, hence, allowing the pressure in the middle ear to equalize with the air pressure in the environment.

Remedy # 2: Eat a chewing gum or hard candy. This will allow some movement of the Eustachian tubes which will help relieve ear pressure.

Remedy # 3: Close one of your nostrils with your finger and blow your nose gently. Don't blow with force, as this may lead to severe ear pain.

Remedy # 4: Fold a few paper towels together, wet them with hot water and place them over your ear. Sleep on your side, with the affected ear on top. Now, place a small cup, over the towel placed on your ear. The heat from the paper towels will force your ears to open up and relieve the ear pressure.

Remedy # 5: Buy a decongestant or nasal spray. These will help cure ear pressure caused due to sinus infections.

Sinus infection is a common cause of ear pressure problem. Sinus pressure builds up when the sinus cavities swell up, become infected or blocked with mucus. You can opt for some home remedies for sinus infection treatment to get relief from sinus ear pressure.

• Drinking plenty of fluids will give relief from sinus ear pressure. Water dilutes mucus and helps relieve ear pressure.
• A warm compress is the another best method to reduce ear pressure problem. Place a cloth soaked in hot water over your ear. The heat from this cloth helps relieve ear pressure.
• Keep your head elevated, using two or three pillows, while you sleep.
• Take a hot shower or steam for at least 15-25 minutes. Steam is quite helpful in relieving this problem and reducing the constant discomfort caused due to ear pressure. Also, running hot water over your nose will help drain the sinus and relieve ear pressure.
• As mentioned above, over-the-counter nasal decongestants should help relieve sinus pressure. You can also opt for a saline nasal spray. It is a mixture of water and salt which helps moisturize and relieve sinus problem. It also helps get rid of allergens. A saline nasal spray is usually available in an easy to use bottle.

You must try the remedies given above for curing ear infections and relieving ear pressure problem. While some of you will get quick relief, others might not experience any improvement in the condition. In case you don't get relief and the condition worsens, it is best to consult a doctor. He/she will prescribe you the right medications considering the severity of your problem.