Cold is a common helath issue among all age group of people. If you are suffering from cold then you might have these symptoms such as headache, nose rain, body aches, and ear pain. It you are suffering from ear pain then it can also caused by ear congestion or infection.   There are various methods to get rid of ear pain to treat. Read this blog to learn how to cure the ear pain caused by a cold.  

Why Cold Cause an Earache? 

If you are suffering from a cold then here are a few common causes that lead to ear pain.  

Congestion 

The eustachian tube connects your middle ear and upper throat which connects to the nose. It prevents the accumulation of fluid and air in your ear.  If you are suffering from a cold then mucus will accumulate in the eustachian which causes ear pain and aching. You might feel like something is plugged into your ear.   When you get rid of the cold you will feel better, but the problem is some rare cases it leads to ear infections so make sure to take proper medication to prevent it or consult with a doctor. 

Middle Ear Infection 

During the cold fluid build up in the throat and nose. Bacteria spread through the throat to the eustachian tube then the ear and cause middle ear pain. 

Sinus Infection 

Sometimes colds can lead to sinus infections that cause headaches, nose running, and ear pain (due to the pressure in the ear).   

What are the Symptoms of Ear Pain? 

• Sharp and dull pain in the ear. 
• Burning sensation in the ear. 
• You might feel pain in your teeth, jaw, and throat. 
• Fever. 
• You might feel irritation. 
• Hearing loss.  
• Tugging in ears. 
• Difficulty in sleeping.  
• Can’t sleep
• Fluid from the ear. 
• Earache. 
• Face muscle weaknesses. 
• Yellow and green colored fluid discharge from the ear. 
• Difficulty in swallowing anything. 

How to Prevent Ear Pain?

• If you are suffering from a cold then take medications to prevent cold and ear pain. 
• If you have an earache or ear discomfort then don’t insert a cotton, finger, or any other object otherwise it can worsen your ear condition. 
• Wash your hands regularly to prevent spreading bacteria from the hands to the ear.
• Quit smoking because it can increase the chances of ear infections. 
• After taking a shower or swimming clean your ear with a clean towel to stop the bacteria growth in your ears. 
• Use ear muff during winter otherwise, it increases the chances of bacteria growth in your ear. 
• Improve your immunity system by maintaining a healthy diet. 

Remedies to Treat Ear Pain During Cold

Warm Compress

A warm compress is a simple yet effective remedy for ear pain during a cold. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and gently place it against the affected ear for 10 to 15 minutes. The warmth helps reduce inflammation, ease congestion, and relieve pain. Ensure the temperature is comfortably warm, not hot, to avoid burns. Repeat this several times a day for significant relief.

Nasal Decongestants

Nasal decongestant sprays or drops can help clear nasal passages, thereby reducing the pressure on the Eustachian tubes. However, it is essential to use these medications sparingly and follow the recommended dosage, as overuse can lead to rebound congestion. Consult a healthcare professional before using decongestants, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can provide temporary relief from ear pain. These medications help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort caused by the pressure buildup in the ears. Follow the dosage instructions and avoid using them for an extended period without medical advice.

Steam Inhalation

Steam inhalation is beneficial in easing congestion and promoting drainage from the Eustachian tubes. Boil water in a bowl, lean over the bowl with a towel covering your head to trap the steam, and inhale the warm steam for about 5-10 minutes. Be cautious not to get too close to avoid burns. This practice helps in opening up the nasal passages, thereby reducing ear pain.

Saline Nasal Rinse

A saline nasal rinse is an excellent way to keep the nasal passages moist and clear mucus, reducing the pressure on the Eustachian tubes. You can use a saline solution made with salt and water or purchase a pre-made solution from a pharmacy. Gently irrigate each nostril with the saline rinse to flush out any irritants and congestion.

Warm Oil Drops

Warm oil drops, such as mineral oil or olive oil, can be instilled into the ear to soothe irritation and discomfort. Make sure the oil is at body temperature before putting a few drops into the affected ear. Gently place a cotton ball in the ear to prevent the oil from leaking out. This remedy can provide relief from ear pain and irritation.

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is essential during a cold as it helps in thinning mucus and reducing congestion. Drink plenty of water and warm fluids to keep the respiratory passages moist and promote easier breathing.

Conclusion 

Here in this blog, we will discuss how to cure ear pain due to cold and what are the home remedies. If you find this blog useful then share it with others.