– never forcefully blow your nose with both nostrils pinched shut. That can push mucus into your ears and make things worse (or cause an infection).
Take a sip of water or swallow hard. Sometimes that’s all it takes to open the tubes. how to pop ears when you have a cold
You know the feeling: your nose is running, your head is heavy, and your ears feel like they’re stuffed with cotton. That happens because a cold can swell your Eustachian tubes (the tiny passageways between your middle ear and throat), trapping fluid or air. – never forcefully blow your nose with both
Soak a washcloth in warm (not hot) water, wring it out, and hold it against your blocked ear for 30–60 seconds. The heat can help relax tension and promote drainage. Sometimes that’s all it takes to open the tubes
Thin mucus drains better. Drink water and try a warm shower or a bowl of steaming water (with a towel over your head – eyes closed!).
Save this for your next cold (or share it with someone who needs to hear it – literally).