Home remedies for ear congestion

Home remedies for ear congestion

Winter is just around the corner and seasonal flu, coughs and colds are making the rounds. While it may seem like a small problem, a simple cold can get the worst of you; Stuffy nose, stuffy ears and coughing can drive you crazy. Here are some home remedies you can try to clear your ear congestion.

What is an ear blockage?

Ear blockage refers to the feeling of stuffiness or congestion that most likely occurs due to either inflammation or a blockage in the Eustachian tubes (tubes that connect the middle ear to the throat) of the ear. The Eustachian tubes essentially serve to drain fluids and regulate pressure; and when blocked, they can cause pain or even mild hearing loss.

Common causes of ear congestion

Most often, ear congestion occurs as a result of congestion from a cold, which causes the Eustachian tubes to become blocked with mucus. Sometimes ear blockages can also occur as a result of a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the ear canal, thereby blocking the ear passages. Other common reasons for ear blockage include changes in air pressure during a flight and excessive earwax.

In rare cases, ear blockages are also observed with lactose intolerance.

Home remedies for ear congestion

Treating ear blockages is not that difficult, with these simple home remedies you can do it.

Soften Earwax!If it's hardened wax that's causing your ear congestion, try softening it - use an eyedropper to place a few drops of mineral oil or baby oil into the opening of your ear; Do this for 3-4 days - this will make the hardened wax soft and easy to remove with an earplug. Always consult a doctor before putting anything in your ears!

Additionally, NEVER attempt to dig out hardened earwax with sharp or pointed objects such as a pen, pencil, bobby pin, etc. This pushes the earwax harder and deeper into the ear and can cause serious damage to the delicate inner lining of the ear.

Try “hot” foods –If you are sure that your ear congestion is due to cold, you can try eating “warm” foods like garlic, onions, radishes, jalapenos, peppers, chilies, etc. to clear the congestion. These foods tend to soften the mucus that blocks the ear, thereby reducing congestion. Drinking warm soups, broths and a cup of tea can also help!

Chewing gum-Yes, you read that right! Chewing on sugar-free gum or lozenges can help relieve ear congestion that occurs during a flight.

Inhale!It is believed that steam inhalation, preferably with a few drops of peppermint, eucalyptus or lavender oil, can help control stuffy ears.

Do it manually!Another effective home remedy to cure ear congestion is to simply stretch the back of the throat. This promotes the opening of the Eustachian tubes, thereby relieving congestion. You can also try closing your mouth as you gently exhale, as this helps to create gentle pressure on the Eustachian tubes, forcing them to open and releasing the blockage.

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