Winter Ear Problems: As soon as the winter season starts, many people start facing the problem of blocked ears. Feeling of heaviness in the ears, muffled hearing, slight pain or feeling of strain are common symptoms. According to doctors, this problem is called ear congestion in medical language. In the cold season, this problem increases further due to cold, allergy, infection or sharp change in weather. Just as the nose gets blocked due to cold, similarly the ears also start feeling blocked due to swelling in the Eustachian tube. This is the reason why many times the ears do not seem to open even after the cold is cured.
The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the space behind the nose. When this tube gets blocked due to swelling, pressure starts accumulating in the ear, due to which pain or strain is felt and hearing is also reduced. Usually this blockage gets cured on its own in a few days, but by adopting some easy home remedies you can get relief soon.
If the air pressure inside the ear is not balanced, the ear feels heavy, the sound sounds resonant or slow from inside, you feel dizzy or slight pain, then understand that the Eustachian tube is blocked. This problem can usually be caused by cold, blocked nose, allergy, change in altitude during travel, accumulation of wax in the ear or ear infection.
Repeatedly swallowing saliva and yawning opens the Eustachian tube and balances the pressure in the ear. Chewing gum or sucking toffee is also a very effective method.
Close the mouth, press the nose with the fingers and slowly apply pressure like expelling air from the nose. If you hear a pop like sound then understand that the ear is opening. Do not do this too forcefully, otherwise the screen may be affected.
Taking steam is the most effective way to reduce swelling caused by cold and allergies. By adding eucalyptus oil or celery in hot water and taking steam, the nose and tubes start opening.
If the nose is excessively blocked, decongestant nasal spray can provide relief, but do not take it for more than a few days. Allergy patients should use nasal steroids only after consulting a doctor. If the pain is severe, water comes from the ears or hearing suddenly stops, then it is important to contact a doctor immediately.
