Remedies for earache due to a cold

A blocked nose can interfere with the tube that equalises pressure between the middle ear and the throat. This may cause fullness, popping, muffled hearing, or aching. A cold can present with earache, but ear pain does not prove that the cause is a cold; Middle Ear Infection, sinus inflammation, or Earwax Buildup can have overlapping symptoms.

Rest, drink enough to avoid dehydration, and use a warm—not hot—cloth against the outer ear if it feels soothing. Saline nasal spray or rinsing may ease nasal blockage when used as directed. Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help some people; follow the label and check with a pharmacist if you are pregnant, have ulcers, kidney disease, or take other medicines.

Do not put drops, cotton buds, or objects into the ear unless advised. Antibiotic Treatment does not treat an uncomplicated viral cold and should be used only after a clinician recommends it.

Seek medical advice for severe pain, fever, fluid or pus from the ear, new hearing loss, symptoms lasting beyond the cold, or pain that is getting worse. Get urgent help for swelling behind the ear, facial weakness, severe dizziness, confusion, or a severe headache with neck stiffness. A clinician can check whether a Middle Ear Infection or another cause is present.

Ask whether the eardrum and ear canal look inflamed, which pain medicine is suitable with your health conditions, and whether blocked-nose treatment is appropriate. Mention recurrent episodes or symptoms of Sinusitis.