Nasal sprays can unclog your ears by relieving sinus blockage and inflammation. Saline mists and sprays can also help provide moisture to the nasal passages, which can dry out due to bacteria, pollen, or dust.
Do not use nasal decongestant sprays for more than 3 days because it can lead to a rebound effect, leading to more congestion. Make sure to use sprays through the nose, even if the purpose is to relieve ear congestion.
How do nasal sprays unclog ears?
Your sinuses are connected from the nasal passage to the ears and down the back of the throat. A sinus inflammation or sinus blockage can create pressure inside the ear, thus causing a clogged sensation.
Nasal sprays shrink the blood vessels and tissues in the sinuses, thereby reducing swelling and inflammation. It also provides moisture and relieves sinus blockage.
How to use a nasal spray to unclog the ears
Nasal sprays should be used with care to reduce the risk of eardrum damage caused by the high pressure:
- Keep your head in an upright position.
- Shake the bottle well before use and read instructions carefully.
- Gently squeeze or pump the bottle.
- Inhale gently with your mouth closed.
- Point the nozzle towards your neck or ear.
- Bend your head and look at the floor as you spray into your nose.
- Keep sniffing as you spray but only hard enough to feel it in the back of the nose.
- Pinch your nose as you pop your ear and blow gently (this action draws the spray into the eustachian tube).
- Never use the nasal spray in the ears, especially if you have ear discharge or a history of ear perforation.
7 other ways to unclog ears
- Use a humidifier or inhale steam to treat sinus inflammation and pressure.
- Apply a warm washcloth or covered heating pad against the ear.
- Blow through one nostril while blocking the other.
- Drink plenty of water or other fluids to thin out nasal mucus.
- Avoid caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and high-sodium foods to prevent worsening of congestion
- Check for wax buildup.
When to seek professional help
If you experience the following symptoms along with a clogged ear, you should consult your doctor:
- Fever
- Ear pain
- Nosebleed
- Pain in the head and face
- Fever
- Severe swelling and congestion that does not resolve
- No improvement even after 3 days of using over-the-counter medications
References
Image Source: iStock Images
Piedmont. How to unclog stuffy ears. https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/how-to-unclog-stuffy-ear
Cleveland Clinic. Nasal Sprays Work Best When You Use Them Correctly — Here’s How. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nasal-sprays-work-best-when-you-use-them-correctly-heres-how/
Piedmont. How to unclog stuffy ears. https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/how-to-unclog-stuffy-ear
Cleveland Clinic. Nasal Sprays Work Best When You Use Them Correctly — Here’s How. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nasal-sprays-work-best-when-you-use-them-correctly-heres-how/
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