10 Simple Ways To Relieve The Pain Of Sinus Pressure In Ears

Dec 27, 2018

Dealing with sinus pressure in your ears? You're not alone.

While this feeling is quite uncomfortable, thankfully, there are many ways you can help alleviate this nasal congestion. To figure out how best treat this sinus pressure, you must first determine what is causing it.

The clogged up sensation you feel is a result of the varying pressure in and outside your eardrums. This is due to a blockage of the Eustachian tube. This Eustachian tube connects your middle ear to the back of your throat and nose.

Once this tube is open, air will move through the middle ear, out. This will equalize the pressure both inside and outside of your ears. Any activity that causes a change in altitude can lead to an increase in sinus pressure. Additionally, when your nose is congested, you'll feel similar pressure.

Fighting the discomfort of sinus pressure? Take the edge off by trying the following 10 solutions:

Nasal irrigation will help to hydrate the membranes in your nasal passages, as well as wash out any mucus. To do this, use a nasal irrigation device like a neti pot. When using the neti pot, combine 1/2 a teaspoon of non-iodized salt and baking soda into a few cups of warm, sterile water.

Pour the solution into a bulb syringe or neti pot. Then, run the water through your nostril, allowing it to transfer through to the other side. Repeat this process with the opposite nostril.

Staying hydrated is an important way to keep mucus fluid and thin. Be sure to make a habit of drinking water throughout the day as it will help you keep sinus pressure at bay.

Do you live in a dry climate? It may be in your best interest to use a humidifier. This device will allow you to keep the membranes in your nose from drying out.

However, make sure to clean your humidifier on a regular basis. Left unchecked, they can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Keep mucus from pooling in the sinuses by keeping your head up. This is especially helpful when going to bed. Before going to sleep, place an extra pillow behind your head to ensure that it stays propped up at night.

Loosen up any thickened mucus by pressing a warm compress against your face. This will help to soothe your pain, as well as reduce sinus pressure.

This tip is an easy way to moisten your nasal membranes. Inhaling steam allows warm air to penetrate your passages and help clear out any mucus. There are certain devices that make steaming your nasal pathways easy, but you can also create a DIY method for yourself.

Start by boiling some hot water. Once the water begins to bubble, pour it into a bowl. Then, while it is still hot (but not hot enough for the steam to burn you) lean over the bowl and inhale. It is helpful to cover the bowl and your head with a towel to ensure that most of the steam enters your nose.

Keep inhaling for a period of 10 minutes, allowing the steam to properly hydrate your nasal membranes and help remove any sinus pressure. In addition to this bowl method, feel free to do the same with a cup of your favorite tea, a bowl of soup, or a hot and steamy shower. As long as steam is involved, you're helping to relieve your sinus pressure.

Looking for ways to up the ante with the steam inhalation? Bring on the essential oils! Adding in a drop or two of eucalyptus oil will make the steaming process even more powerful. The eucalyptus oil has antiseptic properties that help to kill any germs that may be lingering in your nasal passages.

Turmeric is regarded as one of the most powerful spices around the world. Turmeric contains curcumin, the secret ingredient that allows for this spice's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic powers.

For hundreds of years, turmeric has been used to treat illnesses like coughs and colds. Research holds that turmeric inhibits the body from releasing histamine, a chemical that induces inflammation and often is what causes a stuffy nose. To make your turmeric tea, start by boiling a few cups of water. Adding in about a teaspoon of the spice, let it simmer for up to 10 minutes. Strain your tea and enjoy!

If you want to enhance your tea's absorption of turmeric, add in a pinch of pepper. If you're worried about the taste, include a dash of honey and you have your own germ-fighting cup of tea.

Believed to contain compounds to help soften mucus, horseradish is often touted as a way to relieve nasal pressure. Moreover, there are studies that hold that horseradish contains antibiotic properties. Take advantage of this cure by grating the root. Take up to one teaspoon three times a day.

Known as a popular treatment for respiratory issues, peppermint is also a good decongestant and expectorant. The menthol in the peppermint helps to thin and loosen mucus. Hot peppermint tea is a quick way to feel better when dealing with sinus pressure. Start by steeping peppermint leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. After making the tea, be sure to take time to breathe it in.

Do you have your own remedies for treating sinusitis or alleviating nasal pressure? Please leave your tips and stories below! Don't forget to spread the word so your friends and family don't suffer from sinus pain this winter!

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation by your doctor. Your health is important to us!