Ear - Congestion

Symptoms

DEFINITION

• Sudden onset of muffled hearing
• Crackling or popping noises in the ear
• A stuffy, full sensation in the ear
• Usually no ear pain, except with air-travel type
• Unusual complaint until after age 4 or 5 years

Causes

• Blockage of ear tube (eustachian tube) during nose allergies, a cold or over-vigorous nose-blowing
• Sudden increases in air pressure, which occur in descent from mountain driving or airplane travel
• Middle ear fluid can be present with a resolving ear infection

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• COLDS is also present.
• HAY FEVER is also present
• EAR DISCHARGE or drainage is also present.

Should I Call?

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR

Care at Home

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR EAR CONGESTION

1. More Chewing and Swallowing: Swallow water or other fluid while the nose is pinched closed. (Reason: creates a vacuum in the nose that helps the Eustachian tube to open up.) After age 6, can also use chewing gum.
2. Decongestant Nasal Spray (Age 6 years or older):
   • If chewing doesn't help after 1 or 2 hours, use a long-acting decongestant nasal spray. You can ask your pharmacist to recommend a brand.
   • Dosage: 1 spay per side, 2 times per day.
   • Don't use more than 5 days. (Reason: rebound swelling)
   • An oral decongestant (e.g., pseudoephedrine) may help if the nasal spray is not available (See Dosage table).
3. Antihistamines:
   • Nasal allergies can cause ear congestion.
   • If your child has Hay Fever or other allergies, give an oral antihistamine such as Benadryl (see dosage table).
   • See Hay Fever topic for details.
4. Expected Course: The symptoms usually clear within 2 days (48 hours) with treatment. It's safe for your child to swim.
5. Prevention for Airplane/Mountain Travel:
   • Swallow during descent using a pacifier or fluids
   • Children over age 6 can chew on gum during descent
   • Yawning also can open the middle ear
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Ear pain occurs
   • Ear congestion lasts over 48 hours
   • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.