Ear Conditions

About Sinusitis & hearing problems

Read about the connection between sinus infections & hearing problems – like ear aches, blocked ears, tinnitus or hearing loss.

Reviewed by

Amplifon Experts

Book an appointment Start the online hearing test

Sinusitis and hearing: symptoms and how they’re connected

Sinusitis and ear problems often go hand in hand. It may seem surprising, but sinus infections can cause the ears to feel blocked or full. Congestion from the sinuses can increase pressure in the middle ear, leading to discomfort, muffled hearing, or even pain. If left untreated, this pressure can become severe and, in rare cases, may result in a perforated eardrum or discharge from the ear. Early intervention is important to protect both sinus and ear health.

Visit your local clinic for more information

What is meant by sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses - the small, bone-shaped cavities that connect to the nose. When they swell, mucous accumulates triggering sinusitis. Causes can include bacterial, fungal or viral infections as well as an enlargement of one's turbinates (bumps on the inside walls of your nasal cavity).
Irritants, such as smoke, chlorine or dust particles, can cause blockage in your sinuses due to swelling. Allergies may also contribute; when the inflammation causes a build-up of mucous it creates conditions favorable for allergies developing.

a woman looking at herself through a mirror

We're here to help.

We take the time to understand your hearing health and the impact it’s having on your life and the people closest to you. With over 350 Amplifon clinics in Australia we can ensure that we can support you when you need us most. Whether you need a FREE hearing test, or a hearing aid adjustment, our audiologists will provide you with expert, professional advice.

Check your hearing online Find an Amplifon clinic

Symptoms of sinusitis

Sinusitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including headache, pain in the face and eye area, watery eyes, coughing at night, fever and nasal congestion. In addition to these general symptoms, hearing (or ears) may also be affected. This is because the infection can reduce air flow into the Eustachian tube (the canal that connects the ear to the nasopharynx), resulting in a feeling of cotton wool inside your ears- like they are "closed". Tinnitus, or ringing in your ears, can also be a symptom of sinusitis.

Problems with the ear due to sinusitis

Ear pain due to sinusitis

Sinus infections and earaches are closely related: the accumulation of mucous in the sinuses can cause pain in the ears due to pressure. The sinuses typically swell up and become blocked with fluid, leading to discomfort or pain in one or both ears.

Blocked ears during sinusitis

If you're experiencing pain in your ear due to a sinus infection, it's likely that the Eustachian tube is blocked.
This increase in pressure can cause discomfort and even make it difficult to hear.
What should you do if this happens during an episode of sinusitis? You can clear by:

Applying a warm compress to your nose and forehead
Using a saline nasal spray several times a day
Avoiding extreme temperature
Drinking plenty of fluid
Using a humidifier
Avoiding caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products

(Pulsatile) tinnitus due to sinusitis

Sinusitis can cause nasal congestion, which in turn causes tinnitus – a ringing noise that you hear. This type of ringing usually happens due to an increase in blood flow, and it is relatively uncommon.
However, sometimes pulsatile tinnitus (a form of ringing where you notice the sound of your own heartbeat) occurs during sinusitis; this occurs when the pressure on your eardrum increases as a result of mucous buildup in your sinuses.

Loss of hearing during sinusitis

Hearing problems caused by sinusitis are due to the presence and the spreading of an ear infection. An ear infection often causes fluid buildup, which increases pressure on the eardrum, leading to hearing loss and a feeling that your ears are blocked. The symptoms usually go away as inflammation decreases; however, this process can take some time.

Sinus and ear infection: common causes

A sinus and ear infection can occur due to several factors, including:

Viral infections, such as the common cold
Bacterial sinusitis
Allergies causing sinus congestion
Blocked Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat

Individuals with frequent sinus infections may also notice ear pain and sinusitis during flare-ups.

Check your hearing online

Check your hearing regularly and keep tabs on your overall hearing health and wellness. Our free online hearing test is a quick and easy place to start to learn more about your hearing health.

Start hearing test now

Treatment methods for a sinusitis

Sinusitis can be treated with medications. Depending on the severity, different remedies may be prescribed by a doctor. The following is a list of some common treatments that help relieve sinus congestion:

Antibiotics if there's evidence of an infection (only if required).
Nasal sprays to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Corticosteroids to reduce swelling and redness.
Painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease discomfort.
Antihistamines (if sinuses are triggered by allergies)

How to relieve sinus and ear pressure

There are several ways to manage sinusitis and blocked ears at home:

Steam inhalation: Breathing in steam can loosen mucus and relieve sinus pressure.
Saline nasal sprays: These help clear nasal passages and reduce congestion.
Warm compresses: Applying a warm cloth to the face can ease facial and ear pressure.
Over-the-counter decongestants: Products labeled as the best decongestant for sinus and ears can temporarily reduce swelling and improve airflow.

Always follow the directions for use, and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

How to get rid of sinus and infections

If home remedies aren’t enough, medical treatment may be necessary. To get rid of sinus and ear infection, a doctor might recommend:

Antibiotics for bacterial infections
Prescription nasal sprays
Ear drops for middle ear infections
Professional drainage procedures in severe cases

Early intervention can prevent complications, including prolonged ear pressure and hearing problems.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

Persistent ear pain and sinusitis lasting more than 10 days
High fever
Severe headache or swelling around the eyes
Recurrent sinus infections affecting daily life

A healthcare professional can provide accurate diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your needs.

FAQs on Sinusitis and hearing issues

How long does it take for a sinus and ear infection to clear?

Mild infections may improve in a few days, while bacterial infections can require antibiotics for 7–14 days.

Can allergies cause sinus and ear problems?

Yes, allergic reactions can trigger sinus inflammation and Eustachian tube blockage, leading to ear discomfort.

What is the best dec

What is the best decongestant for sinus and ears?

The best decongestant for sinus and ears depends on your symptoms and overall health. Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine can help relieve pressure and blocked ears, while nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline or xylometazoline provide fast, short-term relief. Combination products that include antihistamines may be useful for allergy-related congestion. Always follow the directions for use and consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication.

Consult with a qualified hearing care professional

Name:*

Phone: *

Postcode: *

Fields marked with * are mandatory.

Accept terms and privacy policy.

Thank you

You will be contacted shortly by our team to book your appointment

Get support and advice

Request an appointment

Book now

Take an online hearing test

Take the test

Find a clinic near you

Find a clinic