Causes

• Blockage of ear tube (eustachian tube) during 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.

1. What You Should Know:
   • 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. 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.
4. 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. See Dose Table.
   • See Hay Fever guide for other 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 for Airplane/Mountain Travel:
   • Swallow during descent (coming down) using fluids or a pacifier.
   • Children over age 6 can chew on gum during descent (coming down).
   • Yawning also can open the middle ear.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Ear pain occurs
   • Ear congestion lasts more than 48 hours
   • Your child becomes worse