Chewing and swallowing

• One very simple way to relieve ear pressure is to chew gum. This is especially true for ear pressure caused by plane rides or mountain travel. If chewing gum is not helpful, try pinching your nose and drinking water. This helps the eustachian tube that is blocked to open up. Yawning repeatedly also helps open the eustachian tubes, thus relieving clogged ears.
  
  

Decongestants

• Though it may sound strange to treat a clogged ear by using nasal spray, it is often helpful. An over the counter decongestant nasal spray such as Afrin, can help relieve symptoms of ear congestion. Follow the instructions carefully and do not use for more than recommended. Using decongestant nasal sprays too long or too often can lead to rebound swelling and congestion.
  
  If you do not have decongestant nasal spray on hand, you can use an oral decongestant such as phenylephrine or psuedoephedrine-- both are over the counter. Psuedoephedrine works best, but must be purchased directly from a pharmacist due to federal law.
  
  

Antihistamines

• If your ear pressure is allergy related, it helps to take an over the counter antihistamine. Examples of anthihistamines are Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin and chlorpheniramine. Use caution when taking an antihistamine for the first time as some can cause severe drowsiness. Zyrtec and Claritin are the least likely to cause notable drowsiness.
  
  

Be careful when blowing your nose

• Blowing your nose increases pressure in your ears. If your ears are already congested or clogged, blowing your nose can lead to severe pain and worsened ear congestion. It is even possible to perforate your eardrum with forceful nose blowing.
  
  

Try steam

• Steam is very helpful in relieving sinus congestion and clogged ears. Simply run a hot shower and enjoy the steam for at least 20 minutes. When you are finished, apply vapor rub to further relieve congestion.
  
  

When home remedies do not work

• While most ear congestion is relieved with homecare, it is important to see a doctor if needed. You should notify your physician if you experience symptoms for more than 48 hours, if you experience ear pain, have a fever or if your ear begins to drain. It is also important to notify your physician if your clogged ear may be caused by a foreign body.