Kulsum International Hospital

Ear Pressure Pain

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Ear pressure pain often happens during flights, diving or driving in the mountains. It usually settles on its own.

Symptoms

  • A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
  • Ear pain
  • Muffled hearing
  • Dizziness in some cases

Causes and risk factors

It happens when the Eustachian tube, which balances pressure, cannot open well. Colds, allergies and sinus infections increase the risk.

Diagnosis

A doctor examines the ear to check the eardrum.

Treatment

Swallowing, yawning, chewing gum and gently blowing with the nose pinched help equalise pressure. Decongestants may help. Most cases resolve without treatment.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if pain lasts more than a few days, or if you have bleeding, discharge, severe pain or hearing loss.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Ear Pressure Pain.

ENT Surgery

Prof. Maj. Gen. (R) Dr. Shoaib Ahmed

Consultant ENT Surgeon

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