Atención en el hogar
What You Should Know About Ear Congestion:
- Most often, this is from a blocked ear tube (eustachian tube). This tube normally drains the space behind the eardrum.
- It is usually not caused by an ear infection.
- Here is some care advice that should help.
Swallow and Chew More:
- Swallow water or other fluid while the nose is pinched closed. Reason: makes a vacuum in the nose that helps the ear tube open up.
- After age 6, can also use chewing gum.
Decongestant Nose Spray (Age 12 years or Older):
- If chewing doesn't help after 1 or 2 hours, use a long-acting decongestant nose spray. An example is Afrin.
- Dose: 1 spay per side, 2 times per day as needed.
- Don't use for more than 3 days. Reason: can cause rebound swelling in the nose.
- Decongestants given by mouth (such as Sudafed) are another choice. They can also open a stuffy nose and ears. Side effects: they may make a person feel nervous or dizzy. Follow the package directions.
Allergy Medicines:
- Nose allergies can cause ear stuffiness.
- If your child has hay fever or other allergies, give an antihistamine.
- Use a long-acting one, such as Zyrtec. Age limit: 2 and older.
- See the Nose Allergy (Hay Fever) care guide for detailed advice.
What to Expect:
- The symptoms most often clear within 2 days (48 hours) with treatment.
- It's safe for your child to swim or fly.
Prevention During Air or Mountain Travel:
- It's safe to fly when your child has a cold.
- Most symptoms happen when the airplane is coming down in altitude. This is the descent of the plane during the 15 minutes before landing.
- Keep your child awake during takeoff and descent.
- Swallow during descent using fluids or a pacifier.
- Age over 6: can chew gum during descent.
- Yawning during descent also can open the middle ear.
- Drink lots of fluids throughout the flight. This will prevent the nasal secretions from drying out.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Ear pain occurs
- Ear congestion lasts more than 48 hours
- You think your child needs to be seen
- Your child becomes worse
Remember! Contact your doctor if you or your child develop any "Contact Your Doctor" symptoms.