Use a saline spray to thin the mucus in the nose. Then, close your mouth, pinch your nose, and try to sniff gently as if you are smelling a flower. This pulls the thin mucus out of the tube rather than pushing germs in.
A topical nasal spray (like oxymetazoline—Afrin) shrinks the tissue at the opening of the Eustachian tube. Limit use to 3 days to avoid "rebound congestion." Oral decongestants (pseudoephedrine) work systemically but take longer. ear clogged from cold
When you catch a rhinovirus or flu, the mucous membranes lining your nose, sinuses, and that tiny tube swell up. Suddenly, a passage no wider than a pencil lead becomes the equivalent of a wet, swollen straw. Use a saline spray to thin the mucus in the nose
In most cases, a clogged ear clears up as the cold resolves. However, you should seek medical attention if: Suddenly, a passage no wider than a pencil
Thick, sticky mucus is the enemy. A hot shower or a bowl of steaming water with a towel over your head loosens the glue-like consistency. Drink 2-3 extra glasses of water than normal to keep secretions thin.