Causes of ear and sinus pressure include a blocked Eustachian tube, changes in barometric pressure, and infection. In addition, flying in airplanes and swimming can also cause ear and sinus pressure. Frequently, when ear or sinus infection occurs, fluid builds up in the ear, causing not only ear and sinus pressure, but dizziness, vertigo, and pain. When pressure in the ears and sinuses occur, an infection is usually to blame. Although ear infections in adults are not common, sinus infections are.

Typically, when ear and sinus pressure are infection related, antibiotics are recommended. The use of antibiotics is only appropriate when the organism is bacterial in nature. Viral causes of ear and sinus infections are not appropriate for antibiotic treatment. Most of the time, however, whether viral or bacterial, sinus infection resolves on its own, without treatment.

Sometimes, simple remedies such as chewing gum, yawning or forcefully blowing the nose can improve clogged ears and restore muffled hearing. Sinus pain can be so severe that it causes excruciating pain when bending down or leaning over. Taking a decongestant can relieve ear and sinus pressure and eliminate clogged ears and sinus pain.

Although many people do not consider medications such as ibuprofen appropriate treatment for ear and sinus pressure, this medication can relieve pressure related pain very successfully. Ibuprofen does not alleviate the actual pressure, so other treatments such as facial massage and nasal sprays are often recommended. When using nose sprays, the results are usually immediate and dramatic. The fast results entice people to overuse them, however, which can be dangerous and cause negative effects. When nasal spray is overused, an increase in symptoms can occur.

Ear pressure can often result from trapped water. As water gets trapped in the ear from swimming or showering, bacteria can breed, causing infection and inflammation. In those who are susceptible to ear infections, ear plugs should be worn when swimming or taking showers. In addition, when sinus infection or congestion causes an earache, analgesic ear drops can substantially relieve pain and inflammation. After instilling ear drops, it is important for the individual to lie on his side for a few minutes to make sure the medication reaches the inner ear and does not run out. If earache becomes severe, the physician needs to be called because a ruptured ear drum can result and affect hearing.