Swallow, yawn, or chew gum
Perform the Valsalva maneuver gently: pinch your nose, close your mouth, and blow softly for 1–2 seconds
Perform the Toynbee maneuver: pinch your nose and swallow
Use gentle steam inhalation or a warm shower to help loosen congestion
Use saline nasal spray
Use a decongestant nasal spray for up to 3 days (if appropriate for you)
Use an oral decongestant if appropriate for you
If you use allergy medication, take it as directed
If you suspect earwax buildup: use OTC earwax softening drops as directed
Consider irrigation only if you’re confident it’s earwax and you don’t have a perforated eardrum or ear tubes
Keep water out of the ear if you have pain, drainage, or suspected infection
Seek urgent care if you have severe pain, fever, drainage, sudden hearing loss, dizziness/vertigo, bleeding, or one-sided symptoms that are worsening
Seek care if symptoms last more than 48–72 hours or keep recurring
Do not insert cotton swabs or other objects into the ear
Avoid forceful pressure changes (strong blowing)