Prevent earache? Which side should I sleep on?

Question

I have a cold and one of my ears feels "closed", and I'm afraid I'll get an earache. I'm wondering if laying on one side or another will prevent me from getting it. Should I sleep on the ear that's closed or on the other ear?

Answer 1

if the fluid from your cold is going to travel into your ear, it will do so no matter how you lay.

to help break up the blockage and flush out the extra fluid in that ear, try taking any over the counter nasal decongestant (sudafed pe works really good and it's non-drowsy). this will help clear out any congestion in your sinuses and ear canals.

if you start to notice increased pain, fever, or drainage coming from that ear-make an appt to see your dr-chances are you have an infection

feel better soon!!

Answer 2

I usually just sleep however I'm comfortable. It doesn't seem to make a real difference in where the cold goes.

Feel better fast!