Best Over The Counter Medicine For Stopped Up Ears
Experiencing a blocked or stopped up ear can be uncomfortable and frustrating. It can even affect your hearing and balance. While there are several reasons why your ears may feel blocked, it's essential to know the best over-the-counter (OTC) medicine that can help relieve the symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some of the best OTC medicines for stopped-up ears.
Causes of Stopped Up Ears
Before we dive into the best OTC medicines, let's first understand what causes blocked or stopped up ears. Some of the common causes include:
- Earwax buildup
- Ear infections
- Changes in altitude, such as when flying or driving through mountains
- Changes in air pressure, such as when scuba diving or swimming
- Allergies
- Cold or flu
- Sinusitis
Knowing the cause of your blocked ear can help you determine the best OTC medicine to take. However, if you have severe ear pain or discharge, it's best to consult a healthcare professional.
Best Over The Counter Medicines for Stopped Up Ears
1. Debrox Earwax Removal Aid
If your blocked ear is due to earwax buildup, Debrox Earwax Removal Aid can be an excellent OTC option. This medicine contains carbamide peroxide, which helps soften and loosen earwax, making it easier to remove. It comes with a soft, rubber bulb syringe that you can use to gently flush out the earwax after using the drops.
2. EarPlanes Earplugs
If you're traveling by plane or driving through mountains, changes in altitude can cause your ears to feel blocked. EarPlanes Earplugs can help regulate the air pressure in your ear canal, reducing the blocked feeling. They're made of soft, hypoallergenic silicone and are available in different sizes to fit different ear canals.
3. Flonase Nasal Spray
If your blocked ear is due to allergies or sinusitis, Flonase Nasal Spray can be an effective OTC medicine. This spray contains fluticasone propionate, which helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, opening up the Eustachian tube and relieving the blocked feeling in your ear. It's safe for long-term use and can provide 24-hour relief.
4. Sudafed PE Decongestant Tablets
If your blocked ear is due to a cold or flu, Sudafed PE Decongestant Tablets can help relieve the blocked feeling. These tablets contain phenylephrine, which helps shrink the blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and opening up the Eustachian tube. It's important to note that Sudafed PE can increase blood pressure, so it's not recommended for people with high blood pressure.
5. Hyland's Earache Drops
If your blocked ear is due to an ear infection, Hyland's Earache Drops can help relieve the pain and pressure. These drops contain natural ingredients like belladonna and chamomilla, which help reduce inflammation and soothe the ear canal. It's important to note that these drops are not a substitute for antibiotics, so if you have a severe ear infection, it's best to consult a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Blocked or stopped up ears can be uncomfortable and affect your hearing and balance. Fortunately, there are several OTC medicines that can help relieve the symptoms. It's essential to know the cause of your blocked ear to determine the best OTC medicine to take. If your symptoms persist or are severe, it's best to consult a healthcare professional.