Ear pain or a feeling of “fullness” in the ear. Ringing or popping sounds and sensations that don’t come from the outside environment. Children may describe popping as a “tickling” sensation. [3] X Trustworthy Source FamilyDoctor. org Family-focused medical advice site run by the American Academy of Family Doctors Go to source Trouble hearing clearly. Dizziness and trouble keeping balance. Symptoms might be heightened when you rapidly change altitude — for example when flying, riding an elevator, or hiking/driving through mountainous areas
Take a deep breath and hold it, closing your mouth and pinching your nostrils shut. [9] X Research source Try to blow air out through your closed nostrils. If the maneuver is successful, you will hear a popping sound in your ears, and your symptoms will be relieved.
Pinch your nose closed. Take a sip of water. Swallow. Repeat this process until you feel your ears pop and open back up.
Insert the nozzle into one nostril, and pinch the other nostril closed with your finger. [11] X Research source Try to inflate the balloon using only your nostril, until it is about the size of a fist. Repeat the process on the other nostril. Repeat until you hear the “pop” of free air flow in the Eustachian canal.
Try one of the equalizing maneuvers after using a nasal decongestant. They might be more effective at this time.
Note that antihistamines are usually not recommended for people with ear infections.
Follow dosage instructions for antibiotics precisely. Finish the entire antibiotic cycle, even if your symptoms seem to resolve before you’ve finished it.
You must protect your ears entirely from water while pressure equalization tubes are installed. Use earplugs or cotton balls while showering, and use specialized ear plugs while swimming. If water passes through the tube to the middle ear, it can cause an ear infection.
