Ear - Congestion

Causes

Blockage of the ear tube (eustachian tube). Usually occurs from nose allergies or a cold
Blowing the nose too much can also cause blockage of the ear tube
Sudden increases in air pressure. This can occur in descent (coming down) when mountain driving or flying.
Middle ear fluid can also cause this. This sometimes happens with ear infections.

Prevention During Air or Mountain Travel

It's safe to fly when your child has a cold
Most symptoms happen when the airplane is coming down in altitude. This is the descent of the plane during the 15 minutes before landing.
Keep your child awake during takeoff and descent.
Swallow during descent using fluids or a pacifier.
Children over age 6 can chew gum during descent.
Yawning during descent also can open the middle ear.
Drink lots of fluids throughout the flight. This will prevent the nasal secretions from drying out.

Overview:

Most often, this is from a blocked ear tube (eustachian tube). This tube normally drains the space behind the eardrum.
It is usually not caused by an ear infection.
Here is some care advice that should help.

Swallow and Chew More:

Swallow water or other fluid while the nose is pinched closed. Reason: Makes a vacuum in the nose that helps the ear tube open up.
After age 6, can also use chewing gum.

Decongestant Nose Spray (Age 12 years or older):

If chewing doesn't help after 1 or 2 hours, use a long-acting decongestant nose spray. You can ask your pharmacist to suggest a brand.
Dose: 1 spay per side, 2 times per day as needed.
Don't use for more than 3 days. Reason: Can cause rebound swelling in the nose.
Decongestants given by mouth (such as Sudafed) are not advised. They may lessen nose and ear congestion in some children. However, they also can have side effects.

Allergy Medicines:

Nose allergies can cause ear stuffiness.
If your child has hay fever or other allergies, give an allergy medicine. An example is Benadryl.

What to Expect:

Definition