 [ Symptoms ] what is the treatment for the common cold [ Disease ] so sorry to hear you are going through this congestion in the ears is not only annoying it can become painful if it does not clear up quickly one thing you can try is an over the counter decongestant medication decongestants basically work by drying up excess fluid whether the fluid is located in the ears nose or wherever note that a decongestant is not the same as an allergy pill be sure to read the label carefully for dosing instructions a pharmacist can help you choose a product and explain how to take it if you develop a fever congestion fluid build up in your chest or a productive cough meaning you are coughing up mucus you would do well to see your health care provider these can be symptoms of something other than a common cold also the symptoms of a common cold should clear up within a week or so and do not forget to drink plenty of fluids especially plain water water can help keep those secretions body fluids thin which makes them easier to eliminate by sneezing or coughing best wishes to you