The best medicine to clear ears depends on the underlying cause of the blockage. Often, congestion from colds or allergies is the culprit, which can be addressed with decongestants.
Types of Decongestants for Ear Congestion
Here's a look at some common decongestants and their typical dosages, as mentioned in the reference:
| Medication | Usual dosage |
|---|---|
| Sudafed PE (phenylephrine) | 10 mg every 4 hours |
| Afrin (oxymetazoline) | 2-3 sprays in each nostril every 10-12 hours |
| Deep Sea Nasal Spray (saline spray) | 2-3 sprays in each nostril every 10-12 hours |
| Claritin (loratadine) | 10 mg once daily |
- Oral Decongestants: Medications like phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages, which can indirectly relieve pressure in the ears.
- Dosage: Typically taken every 4 hours as needed, with 10 mg dose of phenylephrine.
- Nasal Decongestant Sprays: Oxymetazoline (Afrin) is a nasal spray that can quickly help clear nasal passages.
- Dosage: Use 2-3 sprays in each nostril every 10-12 hours. However, it's crucial to not overuse these sprays, as this can lead to rebound congestion.
- Saline Nasal Sprays: A saline spray, like the Deep Sea Nasal Spray, helps to moisturize and clear nasal passages, thinning mucus and easing congestion, which can aid in ear clearing.
- Dosage: Use 2-3 sprays in each nostril every 10-12 hours. It is a gentler option, especially helpful with the drying effects of other medications.
- Antihistamines: If allergies are the cause, an antihistamine such as loratadine (Claritin) can reduce symptoms of congestion.
- Dosage: Typically one 10 mg tablet is taken daily.
How Decongestants Help Clear Ears
Decongestants work by:
- Reducing Swelling: They constrict blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation that can block the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat.
- Improving Drainage: By relieving nasal congestion, they make it easier for the Eustachian tubes to open and allow fluids to drain from the middle ear, thereby reducing pressure and congestion.
Important Considerations
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any new medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions, or if symptoms persist or worsen, consult with your healthcare provider.
- Proper Usage: Follow the instructions on the product packaging or as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Limited Use: Decongestant nasal sprays should be used for a limited time to avoid rebound congestion.
- Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, such as increased heart rate or blood pressure with oral decongestants.
In summary, choosing the "best" medicine depends on the cause of your ear congestion. If due to a cold or allergies, decongestants like phenylephrine, oxymetazoline, saline sprays, or antihistamines like loratadine can be effective.
