Sip warm water or tea and stay well hydrated
Apply a warm compress to the affected ear for 10–15 minutes, repeat as needed
Use a warm (not hot) compress on the side of the ear or jaw to help with pain from congestion or jaw tension
If the pain started after swimming or water exposure, use over-the-counter acetic acid or alcohol-based ear drying drops (only if you do not have a known eardrum perforation or ear tubes)
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed: ibuprofen or naproxen, or acetaminophen if you can’t take NSAIDs
If you have nasal congestion, use saline nasal spray or rinse to reduce Eustachian tube blockage
Consider a short course of an OTC decongestant if appropriate for you (avoid if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, certain heart conditions, or per your clinician/pharmacist guidance)
For ear pressure from flying or altitude changes, try swallowing, yawning, chewing gum, or gentle Valsalva (pinch nose and blow gently—stop if it worsens pain)
Keep the ear dry; avoid swimming and water getting into the ear canal
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
If you have mild outer ear pain (tender when pulling the ear/pressing the tragus), keep the ear dry and consider OTC pain relief; seek care for suspected infection
If you can, sleep with the affected ear up to reduce pressure
Seek urgent care now if: severe pain, swelling behind the ear, fever, pus/blood drainage, sudden hearing loss, dizziness/vertigo, severe headache, stiff neck, facial weakness, or diabetes/immunocompromised status
Seek medical evaluation within 24–48 hours if pain lasts more than 1–2 days, keeps returning, or you suspect an infection, earwax blockage, or a problem with the eardrum