Why is Sinus Pressure in The Ears So Painful?
When experiencing pain and pressure in the ears caused by sinus congestion, there are many questions that may cross your mind. How do I make it go away? The cause of the pain in your ears is usually due to sinus pressure. This is because sinus congestion and stuffiness can affect the pressure in your ears. The pressure in your sinuses affects more than just your nose. It can also cause pain in your ears, dizziness, and the feeling that your ears feel stuffed up or clogged. The good news is, there are several remedies to bring you relief.
Here are some remedies for sinus pressure in the ears:
1. Over the counter decongestant
Nasal decongestants like nasal sprays, saline solutions, or tablets can help relieve sinus pressure and blockage. This helps to relieve clogged ears. If you use a decongestant, make sure to follow the directions on the medication.
2. Pain medication
Over-the-counter pain medication can also relieve pain associated with sinus pressure. Some medications to try for relief are Ibuprofen, Naproxen, or Acetaminophen. Speak with your physician or pharmacist for the best option for you.
3. Blowing your nose
By gently blowing your nose, it can help clear the sinus passages and bring quick relief. While blowing your nose, block one nostril, then change nostrils and repeat. This can help ease the pressure in the ears. Just don’t blow too hard or it may make you feel worse.
4. Saline Rinse
Nasal irrigation with a saline rinse helps relieve nasal congestion and ear pain by flushing out your nasal passages. There are several devices used for saline rinses including bulb syringes, squeeze bottles, Neti pot, and Navage Irrigation kits.
5. Steam
Try taking a steam treatment with a bowl of hot water and a towel. Put your face over the steaming bowl of water and drape the towel over your head. The towel keeps the steam in. The steam loosens mucus. Menthol, Eucalyptus oils, or Camphor can also be used in the water to assist in opening nasal passages. Steam from a hot shower can also help loosen mucus.
6. Hot Moist Washcloth on the face
By applying a moist warm washcloth to the face, it can provide relief to the sinus areas on your face and relieve pressure to the ears.
7. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Staying hydrated will keep your nasal mucus thin. Thin nasal mucus is easier to drain. Draining your nasal mucus will help relieve the sinus pain and pressure you are feeling in the ears.
8. Avoid fast movements and bending over
If you bend forward with your head down, it can make the pressure worse. When there is a build-up of pressure in the inner ear, fast movements such as standing up quickly or shaking your head can cause dizziness.
Bonus Tip for alleviating sinus pressure in the ears:
Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, air travel.
Trying one or a combination of these remedies for sinus pressure in the ear should help bring you some relief. These simple sinus remedies can help alleviate the pain and pressure you experience in your ears. Just be aware that this could develop into a sinus infection.
If there is a persistent problem with sinus pressure in your ears, call (719) 867-7800 to make an appointment today with the ear nose, and throat doctor.