If the air pressure inside the ear is not equal or the Eustachian tube is blocked due to inflammation, the ear may feel heavy, sound may sound muffled, and mild pain or dizziness may also occur.

Blocked ears in winter

During the winter season, people often complain of blocked ears. They feel a heaviness in their ears or cannot hear clearly. This problem is exacerbated by colds , allergies , or weather changes. In medical terms, this is called ear congestion . Just as a cold can cause a blocked nose, inflammation of the Eustachian tubes can also cause blocked ears . This is why many people continue to complain of ear congestion even after a cold has cleared. The Eustachian tubes connect your middle ear to the back of your nose. When they become blocked due to inflammation or congestion , symptoms such as pressure, pulling, mild pain, and hearing loss appear. This blockage usually clears on its own as the inflammation subsides . However, you can find relief more quickly by adopting some simple home remedies .

How to know if your ears are blocked?

If the air pressure inside the ear is not even or the Eustachian tube becomes blocked due to inflammation, the ear feels heavy. Sounds may sound muffled , there may be a feeling of tightness , and mild pain or dizziness . Ear congestion can usually be caused by a cold, nasal congestion, allergies , changes in altitude , earwax buildup , ear infections , and exposure to sunlight or extreme cold .

What to do if your ears are blocked ?

swallow saliva or yawn

Repeatedly swallowing saliva or yawning is considered the easiest and most natural way to clear your ears . Swallowing saliva and yawning open the Eustachian tubes and balance the pressure in the ears. You can also speed up this process by chewing gum or sucking on candy .

Try the Valsalva Technique

This technique is also considered very effective for opening the ears. First, close your mouth, then press your nose with your fingers, and then slowly apply pressure to force air out of your nose. If you hear a popping sound, you can understand that your ears are opening. However, be careful not to do this too forcefully, as this could damage your eardrum.

Steaming is also beneficial.

Steam is also very effective in reducing inflammation in the Eustachian tubes caused by colds and allergies . Inhaling hot steam loosens the swelling in the nose and throat, allowing the tubes to gradually open. If desired, you can also add eucalyptus oil or carom seeds to the steaming water .

Use a nasal spray

If your nose is severely blocked, taking a decongestant nasal spray may also provide relief. However, it's recommended to use it for only a few days. People with allergies may use  nasal steroids only after consulting a doctor .Do your ears get blocked in winter? These home remedies will provide up to 99% relief!