Why does my ear hurt when I blow my nose?
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Ear pain during nose-blowing may be due to allergic rhinitis, in which a large amount of nasal discharge is present. Excessive force when blowing the nose can cause air pressure to impact the eardrum, leading to pain. It could also be caused by sinusitis, where nasal mucus is forced backward into the ear during nose-blowing. Additionally, if the patient already has acute otitis media, blowing the nose may increase pressure in the middle ear, worsening the pain.
Pain in the ear when blowing the nose may be caused by allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, acute otitis media, or other conditions.
1. Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis may lead to excessive nasal discharge. Blowing the nose too forcefully can cause air pressure to impact the eardrum, resulting in ear pain. Antihistamine medications may be used as directed by a physician. Commonly used drugs include loratadine capsules, chlorpheniramine maleate tablets, and cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, which help alleviate allergic reactions.
2. Sinusitis
Sinusitis may cause mucus to flow backward into the ears when blowing the nose. Under medical guidance, nasal decongestants such as furamural nasal drops, oxymetazoline nasal spray, or naphazoline nasal spray can be used. These agents constrict blood vessels and reduce fluid exudation in nasal tissues.
3. Acute Otitis Media
If a patient already has acute otitis media, blowing the nose may increase pressure in the middle ear and worsen symptoms. Antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor, including cefuroxime axetil tablets, azithromycin tablets, and roxithromycin dispersible tablets, which help resolve inflammation.
In addition, acute tonsillitis could also be a possible cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation, obtain an accurate diagnosis, and undergo appropriate treatment.
