Ear - Congestion

When to Call for Ear - Congestion

Care Advice for Ear Congestion

1. What You Should Know About Ear Congestion:
   • 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.
2. 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.
3. 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. An example is Afrin.
   • 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 another choice. They can also open a stuffy nose and ears. Side effects: they may make a person feel nervous or dizzy. Follow the package directions.
     
4. Allergy Medicines:
   • Nose allergies can cause ear stuffiness.
   • If your child has hay fever or other allergies, give an antihistamine.
   • Use a long-acting one, such as Zyrtec. Age limit: 2 and older.
   • See the Nose Allergy (Hay Fever) care guide for detailed advice.
5. What to Expect:
   • The symptoms most often clear within 2 days (48 hours) with treatment.
   • It's safe for your child to swim or fly.
6. 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.
   • Age over 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.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Ear pain occurs
   • Ear congestion lasts more than 48 hours
   • You think your child needs to be seen
   • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the 'Call Your Doctor' symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.