Use saline nasal spray or saline rinse
Try gentle swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum
Perform gentle jaw movements to help equalize pressure
Use the Valsalva maneuver gently: pinch nose, close mouth, exhale gently against closed nose
Use the Toynbee maneuver: pinch nose and swallow
Use a warm compress over the affected ear
Take a shower or use steam to help loosen congestion
Use an over-the-counter decongestant if you can take them safely
Use an over-the-counter antihistamine if allergies are likely
If you have nasal symptoms, use an over-the-counter steroid nasal spray as directed
If symptoms persist, consider an earwax softener (carbamide peroxide) as directed
Use ear irrigation only if you have no history of ear drum perforation or ear tubes and follow product directions
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or tools into the ear
Avoid using ear candling
Seek urgent care if you have severe pain, drainage, bleeding, fever, sudden hearing loss, dizziness/vertigo, or you suspect an object in the ear
Seek medical care if it hasn’t improved within a few days or keeps recurring