→ Stop Valsalva, avoid decongestants, see primary care/ENT.

Objective: To explain why ears become blocked during a cold and provide safe, effective methods for relief. 1. Pathophysiology: Why Colds Block Ears The sensation of plugged ears arises from dysfunction of the Eustachian tube – a narrow canal connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat (nasopharynx). Its role is to equalize air pressure and drain mucus.

→ Add gentle Valsalva (1–2x/day) + consider oral decongestant.