Pooja Mehta Pooja Mehta Asked 5 months ago

Does covid cause ear pain?

Recently tested positive for COVID, and along with the usual symptoms, I'm also experiencing a sharp pain in my ear. I'm wondering if this is related to the virus. Can COVID infection cause ear pain?

6

6 answers

Kishori Pathak Kishori Pathak Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago
Most liked

Yes, when congestion builds up in the sinuses during covid, it can put pressure on the ears and cause a dull ache. I found doing very gentle bhramari pranayama and taking steam helped release some of that internal pressure, but do not force anything.

Siddharth Roy Siddharth Roy Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Actually, my ENT doctor explained that the Eustachian tube connects your throat to your middle ear. When covid causes throat inflammation and congestion, this tube gets blocked, leading to pain or a clogged feeling. He advised against putting any random ear drops without an otoscopic exam.

Meera Krishnan Meera Krishnan Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Many people in our community have reported ear aches and a ringing sound during or after a covid infection. It is usually temporary and resolves as the throat congestion goes down. However, if the pain is sharp or you notice any fluid discharge, please see an ENT specialist.

Powered by

Consult a ent specialist

Rohan D'Souza Rohan D'Souza Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I had mild ear pain post-covid and it was super annoying. I wanted to continue my daily jogging, but my doctor told me to stick to light indoor walks until the congestion and ear pressure cleared up. Don't rush into heavy workouts if your ears feel blocked.

Aanya Kapoor Aanya Kapoor Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Hey, don't stress too much about it! Ear pain during covid is totally normal because of all the cold and sinus build-up. Just do some warm steam inhalation and rest up, it should get better in a few days. Let me know if you need anything, okay?

Related reads

All articles
Varun Grover Varun Grover Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

Oh, absolutely! Covid loves to explore all parts of the face, and the ears are no exception. I felt like I was underwater for five days with this weird popping sound. Don't worry, your hearing isn't gone forever, it is just the virus throwing a tiny party in your head!

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.