What does earache feel like with common cold?

The discomfort can become more noticeable when swallowing, blowing the nose or lying down. You may also notice a popping sensation, muffled hearing or pain that comes and goes as nasal congestion changes.

A cold can swell the nose and the passage that helps balance pressure between the middle ear and the throat. Trapped pressure can pull on the eardrum and cause aching or fullness. Earache during a cold does not by itself establish the cause; an examination may distinguish congestion from an ear infection or another problem.

Cough, sore throat, runny nose and fatigue commonly occur alongside a cold. Fluid behind the eardrum may make sounds seem distant for a while.

Rest, drink fluids and use gentle measures that relieve nasal congestion, such as humidified air. Swallowing, yawning or chewing may help the ears equalise pressure; do not forcefully blow your nose.

Use pain relief only as directed on the label or by a healthcare professional. Do not place drops in the ear unless advised, particularly if fluid is draining or the eardrum might be damaged.

Contact a clinician if ear pain is severe, lasts after the cold is improving, or comes with drainage, marked hearing loss, fever or repeated vomiting. Seek urgent help for swelling behind the ear, facial weakness, severe dizziness or a very unwell child.

Ask whether congestion is affecting the middle ear, whether the eardrum looks healthy, and which pain or nasal treatments are appropriate. Tell the clinician when the cold began, whether pain is on one or both sides, and whether hearing has changed.