Allergy Relief

How To Relieve Sinus Pressure In Ears

It is common when the sinuses are inflamed to experience pressure in the ears. Your sinuses and ear canals are connected. Allergic rhinitis is what usually causes inflammation in the sinus cavities.  

When people who have allergies are exposed to pollen, dust, smoke, molds, or pet dander, this can cause inflammation of the nasal passages and increase the amount of mucus that's produced. This can block or narrow the sinus and put pressure on the eustachian tubes in the ear.  

How to unclog ears from congestion?

Sinus pressure on the ears is not only painful but can impair hearing and cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or headaches. The consequence of having a clogged sinus is more frequent sinus infections and more frequent ear infections.  

Bacteria and viruses can grow in the fluid trapped behind the eardrum and cause pain and pressure in the ear. If the pressure in the ear develops into an infection, it will need treatment, or it may grow serious and lead to permanent hearing loss.  

1. Moisture: Most of us have a moisture deficit. Keeping hydrated by drinking fluids, especially water, will help keep secretions thinned out. Over-the-counter saline sprays can also help moisturize the sinus cavity and thin out any thick mucus. An easy home remedy is a hot shower or warm moist washcloth applied to the sinus area on the face. Room humidifiers, especially used in the bedroom during sleep, are an excellent source of moisture. Personal humidifiers are also available and are very effective.  
2. Nasal irrigation: Use saline or purified water injected or poured into the nasal cavity to flush out bacteria, mucus, or impurities. The system can be as simple as a Neti pot, a handheld small teapot-looking device that you pour purified water or saline into one nostril, and it flushes through the sinus cavity as it pours out the other nostril. Some irrigation systems are more sophisticated and operate via battery or electricity, but the premise is the same.   
3. Hot/cold packs: Applying a hot or cold pack to the face in the sinus area can help to alleviate some of the pressure and pain that goes along with a blocked or congested sinus cavity. They help to reduce swelling and inflammation.  
4. Decongestants: Prescription and over-the-counter decongestants for ears can be effective in alleviating sinus and ear pressure. Not everyone can take this type of medication as it may interfere with their current health condition or with other medications they are taking. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications.   
5. Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be very effective in alleviating sinus and ear pain. Some over-the-counter pain relievers are formulated to target sinus pressure and pain.  

Again, as with over-the-counter decongestant for ears, please check with your healthcare provider before taking any of these preparations.  

HPFY has a variety of products that can be helpful in alleviating sinus and ear pressure. Please browse our website and find hot and cold packs for the face or eyes, personal humidification systems, room humidification systems, nasal sprays, and other preparations, as well as nasal irrigation systems.    

 

Author Profile: Laura Castricone, Respiratory Therapist

 

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