Can a cold cause ear pain?

I had a terrible cold last week and my left ear felt completely blocked and painful. Steam inhalation and warm compresses around the ear helped a lot, but I still saw an ENT specialist to make sure there was no infection.

Bro, yes. Whenever I get a heavy cold, my ears get blocked and start aching because of all the fluid buildup. Try to avoid blowing your nose too hard, it actually increases the pressure in your ears.

Yes, cold-induced congestion often blocks the Eustachian tube, causing fluid buildup and ear pain. Keep track of how long it lasts; if the pain is severe or you notice fluid discharge, go to an ENT clinic immediately.

My doctor explained that the nasal swelling during a cold blocks the tube connecting the nose to the middle ear. This creates negative pressure and pain. She advised using prescribed nasal drops and warned against self-medicating with ear drops.