Head cold and earache: symptoms & remedies for ear pain from cold

Young woman expressing pain

Ear discomfort and pain from cold weather or a head cold can be frustrating and uncomfortable. When a cold strikes, it's common to experience ear discomfort from cold symptoms, such as pressure or pain, due to the connection between the ears, nose, and throat. If your cold and ears hurt, it might be caused by congestion or inflammation affecting the Eustachian tubes, leading to earaches. This ear hurting with cold sensation can be mild or severe, depending on the severity of your illness. In this article, we will explore the common symptoms and provide remedies to help alleviate ear discomfort during a head cold.

Head cold and ear pain: what is it?

Head cold and ear pain often go hand in hand, as the congestion and inflammation from a cold can impact the ears. When you have a cold and sore ears, it is usually due to the blockage of the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat and help regulate ear pressure. Ear pain from cold symptoms is a common issue because the buildup of fluid or mucus can create pressure and lead to discomfort. If you have a cold and your ear hurts, it's likely because the infection or inflammation is affecting your ear. This earache from cold conditions can vary in intensity, but fortunately, it usually resolves as the cold improves. However, if the cold and earache persist or worsen, it might be a sign of an ear infection, which would require medical attention.

Ear pain and cold symptoms

Ear pain and cold symptoms often occur together because the congestion and inflammation from a cold can affect the ears. Common cold symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and sinus pressure can lead to earache, as the Eustachian tubes become blocked, causing discomfort. When dealing with cold symptoms and ear pain, the pressure in the middle ear can build up, resulting in sharp or dull aches. If cold symptoms and earache are present, it’s usually a temporary condition that improves as the cold resolves. However, persistent ear pain may require a doctor's visit to rule out any potential ear infection.

Elderly Woman Smiling at Phone
Would you like to discover more about hearing health?

Discover more information about auditory health by reading our blog.

Visit our blog

Earache and cold treatments

When dealing with earache and cold symptoms, there are several effective home remedies that can provide relief. For cold and ear pain, home remedies such as applying a warm compress to the affected ear can help reduce discomfort and improve circulation. Another cold and ear pain remedy is staying hydrated, as drinking plenty of fluids can thin mucus and ease pressure on the ears. Using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also alleviate ear pain. Additionally, inhaling steam or using a humidifier can help clear nasal congestion, reducing pressure on the ears and promoting quicker recovery.

Cold and stuffy ears

Cold and stuffy ears are a common discomfort that occurs when congestion from a head cold affects the Eustachian tubes, leading to a feeling of pressure or blockage in the ears. When dealing with a head cold and blocked ears, the excess mucus in the nasal passages can prevent the normal drainage and airflow, resulting in ear congestion. Colds and ear congestion are often linked because the inflammation in the sinuses extends to the ears, causing that frustrating "full" sensation. While it usually clears up as the cold subsides, home remedies like steam inhalation, warm compresses, or decongestants can help relieve the pressure and reduce ear congestion more quickly.

Remedies for cold and blocked ears

When experiencing discomfort, remedies for cold and blocked ears can provide much-needed relief. One effective remedy is inhaling steam, which helps to loosen mucus and clear congestion in both the nose and ears. Applying a warm compress over the ear can also reduce pressure and soothe discomfort. Over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines are useful remedies for cold and blocked ears as they reduce inflammation and improve airflow through the Eustachian tubes. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus, while gentle yawning or swallowing can help equalize the pressure in the ears, offering further relief.

Cold and ears plugged

Dealing with a cold and ears plugged can be frustrating, as congestion from a head cold often leads to that blocked sensation in the ears. When you have a head cold and ear plugged symptoms, it’s usually caused by a buildup of mucus that affects the Eustachian tubes, which regulate ear pressure. This congestion creates a sensation of fullness or blockage in the ears. Remedies such as steam inhalation, using a warm compress, or taking a decongestant can help to relieve the pressure and allow the ears to unblock naturally as the cold symptoms subside.

Flying with a cold and ear in pain and plugged

Flying with a cold and ear pain can be especially uncomfortable, as the pressure changes during a flight can worsen ear congestion. When your ears are plugged from cold and flying, it’s often due to the Eustachian tubes being blocked by mucus, preventing them from equalizing the pressure. This can lead to increased pain and a plugged feeling in the ears during takeoff and landing. To alleviate this discomfort, try using a decongestant before the flight, chewing gum, or performing the Valsalva maneuver (gently blowing with your nose pinched and mouth closed) to help open up the Eustachian tubes. Staying hydrated and using earplugs designed for flying can also help reduce ear pain and pressure.
Elderly woman demonstrating her ability to hear
Book an auditory test for free now!

Discover more about your hearing health!

Find the nearest store

Head cold and ear infection

A head cold and ear infection often go hand in hand, as the congestion from a common cold can sometimes lead to an ear infection. When you have a common cold and ear infection, the buildup of mucus in the nasal passages can block the Eustachian tubes, which helps regulate pressure in the middle ear. This blockage can trap fluid in the ear, leading to inflammation and infection. A cold and ear infection can cause symptoms like ear pain, pressure, and even temporary hearing loss. It's important to treat the cold symptoms and monitor the ear infection to prevent complications, with treatments ranging from over-the-counter remedies to prescribed antibiotics if needed.

Ear infection and cold symptoms

Ear infection and cold symptoms often appear together, as the congestion and inflammation from a cold can lead to an ear infection. When experiencing ear infection and cold symptoms, you might notice a combination of ear pain, pressure, and hearing loss alongside typical cold symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and sinus congestion. The blocked Eustachian tubes from the cold can trap fluid in the middle ear, creating an environment ripe for infection. Addressing both the cold and the ear infection promptly is crucial for relief. Using decongestants to reduce nasal congestion, applying warm compresses to the ear, and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist can help manage the discomfort and prevent further complications.

Cold and ringing ears

Experiencing cold and ringing ears can be quite unsettling, as the congestion and inflammation from a cold can sometimes lead to unusual ear symptoms. When you have a head cold and ringing in ears, the buildup of mucus and pressure can affect the delicate structures of the ear, causing a persistent ringing sound. This phenomenon, often referred to as tinnitus, may occur alongside other cold symptoms like a sore throat and nasal congestion. Cold and ear ringing can be distressing, but it's usually temporary and improves as the cold resolves. To manage cold and ringing in ears, staying hydrated, using steam inhalation to ease congestion, and taking over-the-counter decongestants can help alleviate both the cold and the associated ringing. If the symptoms persist, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider.

Cold and ear pressure

When dealing with a cold and ear pressure, it’s common to experience a sensation of fullness or discomfort in the ears. This head cold and ear pressure often result from nasal congestion, which can block the Eustachian tubes that help regulate ear pressure. As mucus builds up during a cold, it can create additional pressure and discomfort in the ears. Managing ear pressure and cold symptoms involves using remedies like steam inhalation, decongestants, and warm compresses to alleviate nasal congestion and ease pressure in the ears. If ear pressure and cold symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional may be necessary to prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

Elderly couple holding hands and using a tablet
Discover more about ear pressure!

Read our article to find out everything about ear pressure!

Find the nearest store

Ear pain and cold weather

Ear pain and cold weather often go hand in hand, as the drop in temperature can exacerbate discomfort in the ears. When experiencing earache and cold weather, the cold air can cause the Eustachian tubes to constrict, leading to increased pressure and pain in the ears. Additionally, cold weather can contribute to dryness and irritation in the ear canal, further intensifying the sensation of pain. To alleviate ear pain and cold weather discomfort, it's helpful to keep the ears warm and protected, use earplugs in windy conditions, and apply warm compresses to the affected area. If the pain persists, consulting a healthcare professional can provide guidance on effective treatments and prevent further complications.

Itchy ears and cold symptoms

Itchy ears and cold symptoms often occur together, as the congestion and inflammation from a cold can affect the ear canal. When experiencing itchy ears and cold symptoms, the irritation might be due to increased mucus production and dryness in the ear canal. The combination of cold symptoms and itchy ears can be particularly bothersome, as the trapped moisture and allergens may exacerbate itching. Managing itchy ears and cold involves keeping the ears dry and clean, using a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air, and avoiding inserting objects into the ear canal. If the itching persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment and relief.

A young woman holding a TV remote while using the hearing aids on her sofa
Discover more about itchy ears!

Discover why your ears are hitching!

Find the nearest store

Head cold and ears poppings

Head cold and ears popping can be a common and uncomfortable experience, as the congestion from a cold affects the Eustachian tubes, which help regulate ear pressure. When dealing with a head cold and ears popping, the buildup of mucus can create pressure changes in the middle ear, leading to that familiar popping sensation. This cold and ear popping effect is often most noticeable during activities that alter pressure, such as swallowing or yawning. To alleviate the discomfort, you might try techniques like yawning frequently, swallowing, or using decongestants to help clear the congestion. If the popping persists or causes significant discomfort, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for further advice and treatment options.

Can a cold cause ear and jaw pain?

Yes, a cold can indeed cause ear and jaw pain, as the congestion and inflammation associated with a cold can affect various parts of the head. When you have a cold, the buildup of mucus and pressure can block the Eustachian tubes, leading to ear discomfort and even pain. This ear pain can sometimes radiate to the jaw, as the muscles around the jaw and ears can become tense or irritated from the pressure and sinus congestion. If you're experiencing ear and jaw pain during a cold, staying hydrated, using steam inhalation to relieve congestion, and applying warm compresses can help alleviate the discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, it's advisable to seek medical advice to rule out any other potential issues.

With you on your journey to better hearing.

It's time to finally treat your hearing loss. Sign up for a free consultation with a licensed hearing care professional today to determine if you have hearing loss. It’s the start of your journey towards better hearing.

EarPros benefits:

  • it's 100% risk free.
  • best partner with more than 1.000 stores

Please use a valid US zipcode.

Please use a valid zipcode.

Thank you for submitting your request

We will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

Related Articles

Young woman expressing pain

Hearing health

Toothache and earache

Read more

Ear diseases

How To Get Rid of an Ear Infection

Read more
Young Woman Holding Ears Pain

Hearing health

Earache and Headache

Read more
Old woman smiling while holding a tablet

Hearing health

Ears fluttering

Read more
Schedule a free hearing aid consultation