Health Resources

Ear Congestion

Symptom Definition

• Sudden onset of muffled hearing
• Crackling or popping noises in the ear
• A stuffy, full sensation in the ear
• No ear pain
• Unusual complaint until after age 4 or 5 years
• Common causes: blockage of ear tube (eustachian tube) during nose allergies, a cold or airplane/mountain travel

See More Appropriate Topic

• COLD is also present
• HAY FEVER is also present
• EAR DISCHARGE OR DRAINAGE is also present

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 and 4) If

• You think your child needs to be seen
• Earache
• Possible foreign body in ear canal
• Ear congestion lasts > 48 hours

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

• You have other questions or concerns

Parent Care at Home

• Ear congestion (probably from blocked eustachian tube) and you don’t think your child needs to be seen

Home Care Advice for Ear Congestion

1. More Chewing and Swallowing: Have your child chew gum if over age 4. Swallow water while the nose is pinched closed.
2. Decongestant Nasal Spray: If chewing doesn't help after 1 or 2 hours, use a long-acting decongestant nasal spray. You can ask your pharmacist to recommend a brand. Don't use more than 5 days.
3. Antihistamines: If your child has hay fever or other allergies, give an antihistamine
4. Expected Course: The symptoms usually clear within 2 days (48 hours) with treatment. It’s safe for your child to swim.
5. Prevention for Airplane/Mountain Travel
   • Swallow during descent using a pacifier or fluids
   • Children > age 4 can chew on gum during descent
   • Yawning also can open the middle ear
6. Call Your Doctor If
   • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the “Call Your Doctor” symptoms
   • Ear congestion lasts > 48 hours
   • Ear pain occurs

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