How To Reduce Ear Pain Due To Cold?
Suffering from ear pain due to a cold? Learn effective remedies like steam inhalation, warm compresses, and nasal rinses. Know when to see a doctor.
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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
Ear pain during a cold can be extremely uncomfortable and frustrating. The congestion and pressure that come with a cold often affect the ears, leading to pain, muffled hearing, or even temporary hearing loss. If you're struggling with ear pain due to a cold, don’t worry—there are simple and effective ways to find relief.
Why Does a Cold Cause Ear Pain?
When you have a cold, the nasal passages and sinuses become inflamed and congested. This congestion can block the Eustachian tubes, which are small passages connecting your middle ear to the back of your throat. Their job is to regulate ear pressure and drain fluids.
When these tubes get blocked due to mucus buildup, pressure builds up in the middle ear, leading to:
Sharp or dull ear pain
A feeling of fullness in the ear
Popping or crackling sounds
Mild hearing loss
In some cases, this can also lead to an ear infection if bacteria or viruses spread to the middle ear.
How to Relieve Ear Pain Due to Cold?
Ear pain due to a cold can be quite uncomfortable, but there are several effective methods to help relieve the discomfort:
1. Steam Inhalation
Steam helps loosen mucus in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, reducing ear pressure.
Boil water and pour it into a bowl.
Lean over the bowl with a towel over your head to trap steam.
Breathe deeply for 5-10 minutes.
Repeat 2-3 times a day.
2. Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to the affected ear helps ease pain and improve circulation.
Soak a clean cloth in warm water.
Wring it out and place it over the ear for 5–10 minutes.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids (water, herbal teas, soups) to thin mucus and improve drainage.
4. Use a Humidifier
Dry indoor air can worsen congestion. Use a humidifier to maintain moisture and ease breathing.
Consult Top ENT Specialists
5. Nasal Saline Spray or Rinse
A saline solution clears nasal passages and reduces Eustachian tube blockage.
Use a spray or neti pot with distilled/boiled water.
Pour gently into one nostril and let it drain from the other.
6. Chew Gum or Yawn Frequently
These actions help open up Eustachian tubes and relieve pressure.
7. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce pain and inflammation.
8. Avoid Inserting Objects into the Ear
Do not use cotton swabs or other objects, as they can worsen the issue or cause damage.
9. Sleep with Your Head Elevated
Use an extra pillow to elevate your head—this can prevent fluid buildup in the ears.
When to See a Doctor
Ear pain from a cold usually gets better on its own. However, consult a doctor if you experience:
Severe or worsening pain
High fever
Drainage from the ear (pus or fluid)
Hearing loss that doesn't improve
Symptoms lasting more than 3-4 days
These may be signs of an ear infection (otitis media), which could require medical treatment.
Preventing Ear Pain During a Cold
Take steps to reduce your risk:
Blow your nose gently
Avoid altitude changes (flying, diving) when congested
Manage allergies to reduce inflammation and mucus
Conclusion
Ear pain due to a cold is usually temporary and treatable at home. Steam, hydration, and nasal rinses can help relieve pressure and ease discomfort. But if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to seek medical advice. Need help? You can consult an ENT specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert care and quick relief.
Consult Top ENT Specialists
Consult Top ENT Specialists
Dr. Tanvi Choubey
Ent Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MS (ENT). Fellowship in Head Neck Onco Surgery . Consultant - ENT
Rourkela
Apollo Hospitals, Rourkela, Rourkela
Dr. Nishant Rana
Ent Specialist
8 Years • MBBS. MS ENT
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Ashwani Kumar
Ent Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, DNB (Otorhinolaryngology)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Safina Kauser
Ent Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MS ( ENT )
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Meenakshi Venugopalan
Ent Specialist
14 Years • MBBS, DLO Otorhinolaryngology
Bengaluru
Shree Manyata Hospitals, Bengaluru
Consult Top ENT Specialists
Dr. Tanvi Choubey
Ent Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MS (ENT). Fellowship in Head Neck Onco Surgery . Consultant - ENT
Rourkela
Apollo Hospitals, Rourkela, Rourkela
Dr. Nishant Rana
Ent Specialist
8 Years • MBBS. MS ENT
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Ashwani Kumar
Ent Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, DNB (Otorhinolaryngology)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Safina Kauser
Ent Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MS ( ENT )
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Meenakshi Venugopalan
Ent Specialist
14 Years • MBBS, DLO Otorhinolaryngology
Bengaluru
Shree Manyata Hospitals, Bengaluru
