Yes, acupressure points around the ear and on the head are believed to help unclog ears by improving circulation and encouraging sinus drainage, with points like the anti-tragus (small bump behind the tragus), gallbladder 20 (GB20) (grooves at the base of the skull), and the third eye (center of forehead) commonly massaged for relief. Gentle, firm circular pressure on these points, combined with techniques like yawning, swallowing, or using steam, can help open the Eustachian tubes and relieve ear fullness from congestion.
The anti-tragus is the small prominence just behind the tragus on the outer ear rim. Use your index finger to apply light pressure and massage these areas slowly in circular motions, about one minute per ear. These points may encourage sinus drainage and reduce ear congestion related to sinus swelling.
Use your finger to find a bony bump behind your ear lobe. Slide your finger down until you feel a groove between your earlobe and jaw. Using firm, steady pressure, trace the groove all the way down your neck to the collarbone. Repeat this process three times on each side of your head, three times a day.
For kid's ear pain relief, use child-safe paracetamol or ibuprofen, apply a warm compress, help them stay upright (especially when sleeping) to ease pressure, and ensure they drink water, but always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and prescribed drops, avoiding anything in the ear (like oil or cotton) unless advised. Avoid aspirin for kids and cotton swabs in the ear canal.
If your ears are plugged, try swallowing, yawning or chewing sugar-free gum to open your eustachian tubes. If this doesn't work, take a deep breath and try to blow out of your nose gently while pinching your nostrils closed and keeping your mouth shut. If you hear a popping noise, you know you have succeeded.
To sleep with an ear infection, elevate your head or sleep on your non-affected side. Elevating the affected ear makes it easier for the infection to drain.
You can ease ear pain at home with treatments such as OTC pain relievers, hot or cold compresses, and sleeping upright. If the pain persists for more than a couple of days, see your doctor. If your child has ear pain, it often indicates an ear infection. They should see their pediatrician right away.
Pharmacists can offer advice on a range of illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, ear infections and aches and pains. They can also give advice about medicines.
The commonest cause of blocked ears is usually an issue in the outer ear, due to wax accumulating and blocking the ear canal. If left to accumulate and block the ear canal, it can cause problems with hearing and an infection in the outer ear causing swelling, pain and discharge.
Other safe techniques include yawning or chewing gum, applying a warm compress against the ear and making gentle jaw movements. These methods can help relieve pressure and promote the natural clearing of the ears.
According to hearing health experts, exercising helps increase blood flow to the ears. This is essential for protecting the delicate hair cells within the inner ear, which are responsible for converting soundwaves into electrical energy that the brain interprets as sound.
Tilting your head to the side, gently pulling on your earlobe, or chewing can help drain trapped water. Why do my ears clog up during flights? Rapid changes in air pressure during air travel can affect your middle ear, especially during takeoff and landing.
The forbidden points—LI4, SP6, BL60, GB21, and CV3—are traditionally avoided during pregnancy due to their potential to induce labor or stimulate strong physiological reactions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using acupressure to ensure both the safety of the mother and the baby.
The Tinnitus and B12 Deficiency Connection
Their findings, which were published in the American Journal of Otolaryngology, revealed that tinnitus is linked to vitamin B12 deficiency. Researchers also say that patients suffering from this condition improved after vitamin B12 supplemental therapy was introduced.
Your ears are affected by the areas just below your toes on both feet. On both feet, the lungs are found about an inch below all your toes except the big toe. Your heels on both feet are connected to your legs.
The symptoms of an ear infection usually start quickly and include:
Pharmacists can prescribe for seven common conditions under the UK's NHS Pharmacy First service, including uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women, shingles, impetigo, earache, sore throat, sinusitis, and infected insect bites/stings, with specific age/gender restrictions, allowing quicker access to treatments without needing a GP visit for these minor ailments.
Over the counter pain medication – check with your doctor first to make sure what you're taking is safe. A warm compress over the ear made from a gently heated towel. Ear drops made from one part rubbing alcohol and one part vinegar (not suitable if you have damage to the ear canal).
To create a salt sock, take a clean sock and fill it with coarse sea salt. Warm the salt sock in the microwave for a few seconds, ensuring that it is not too hot. Gently place the warm salt sock over the affected ear and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. The heat from the salt sock can help reduce pain and inflammation.
One-sided ear pain can be caused by a wide range of conditions, from simple ear infections to more complex disorders like TMJ dysfunction or throat infections. Understanding the potential causes and recognising the associated symptoms is crucial in managing the pain effectively and knowing when to seek medical help.
Hydrogen peroxide is a solution (liquid) that can be used to treat ear infections or the build-up of wax. It is generally safe to use in all ears. Do not use if it irritates you or causes pain. You can buy 3 per cent hydrogen peroxide from your local chemist – no prescription is required.
Sleeping on the Unaffected Ear
Many healthcare professionals recommend sleeping on the side opposite to the clogged ear, significantly when only one ear is affected. This approach can: Promote drainage: Keeping the affected ear elevated may encourage fluid to drain naturally.
Resting in an upright position instead of lying down can reduce pressure in the middle ear. Over-the-counter ear drops can be used to relieve pain, as long as the eardrum has not ruptured.