How can I pop my ear?

How can I make an ear pop after a flight?

• I'm having trouble with my left ear. I can't really hear out of it and it is aching. I just had a flight and I need to make it pop, but I can't hold my nose and do it. Grumble. Also, I have a cold so have blocked nose and sinuses etc ...if that makes any difference. Thanks!

• Answer:

  Yep, having a cold is going to make a difference. You might have what is called a reverse block. It's awful. I would suggest take Sudafed or something with pseudoephedrine, just make sure it does not interact with anything else you are taking. SInce you flew with a cold, your eustachian tubes are blocked. Probably should have taken it before you got on the plane, so if you are going back before you get better, make sure you get some decongestants! The clogged feeling will lift, but it may take a few days. Do not keep blowing your nose to try and get it to clear you will only continue to inflame your tubes. I am a scuba diver, have taught scuba, it was one of the biggest problems we had. Good luck!