Because the ears, nose, and throat are interconnected, congestion and inflammation from everyday illnesses or allergies can lead to ear pressure, fluid accumulation, pain, headaches, or even temporary hearing changes.
We put this page together to help you decode your symptoms, explore at-home steps to try, and when it’s time to consult a professional.
We’ll look at:
- Colds, flu, and sinus pressure
- Common causes of ear popping
- Traveling with an ear infection
- Allergies and ear pain
Need help now?
Request an appointment with a nearby hearing health care professional.
Colds, Flu & Winter Weather
How does the common cold lead to clogged ears and what does that mean for our hearing health? Get the answers and explore self-care strategies in our guide.
What's Behind Your Clogged Ears?
Besides the common cold and Eustachian Tube Dysfunction, there are plenty of other reasons why your ears may feel clogged, blocked, or muffled.
Read through our list of potential culprits and get a head start on remedying the situation.
Temperature drops can cause the ears to be uncomfortable, or even hurt. Take the right steps to protect your ears and your hearing aids.
Sinus Pressure and Ear Popping
How to Relieve Sinus Pressure in Ears
Read our guide to understand:
- What causes sinus pressure in the ears;
- How to relieve ear pain from sinus infection, including over-the-counter options.
Temporary ear popping is usually caused by air pressure or altitude changes. However, persistent ear popping may indicate an underlying issue.
Our guide goes over:
- What causes ears to pop
- How allergies can interfere
- Remedies to try at home
- When it’s time to seek medical attention.
Ear Infections and Sore Throats
Flying With an Ear Infection
Planning to travel while sick? Flying with an ear infection poses a risk of severe pain or eardrum injury due to altitude and pressure changes.
Read about how air travel can affect the ears and how to minimize potential discomfort.
Understand the connection between a sore throat and ear pain, why a sore throat can lead to ear pain when swallowing, how to find relief at home, and when to consult a doctor.
Helpful Resources & Next Steps
- Understanding severe infections with our breakdown on double ear infection.
- Managing persistent fluid buildup with clinical interventions like ear tubes.
Ear Infections: Are They Contagious?
No, there’s no such thing as contagious ear infections. However, the underlying colds or viruses that trigger them can be contagious. Understand potential causes, the difference between middle ear and external ear infections (and why it matters), and when to see a doctor.
To Read: Are Ear Infections Contagious?
Allergies & Hearing Issues
Allergies & Ear Pain
For some, allergies lead to clogged ears, ringing, pain, and even infections. Our guide discusses why that is and steps you can take at home.
When Should I See a Doctor?
While temporary hearing loss and fullness are common during acute sickness, symptoms should clear up as you recover. However, that doesn’t always happen. You should schedule an evaluation with a professional if:
- You notice persistent drainage in ear canals (read more about ear drainage).
- Muffled hearing or ear ringing continues 1-2 weeks after your cold or sinus symptoms have disappeared.
- You experience sudden, severe hearing loss in one or both ears.
- You suspect recurring infections have impacted your baseline hearing ability.
Ready to Take Control of Your Hearing Health?
Hearing health contributes directly to your overall well-being. If you think recurring infections or allergies have led to changes in your hearing, Amplifon Hearing Health Care has hearing health care professionals who can conduct an evaluation and offer recommendations.
Take control of your hearing health
Request a hearing evaluation
Request an appointment at a hearing care provider near you.
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