Nonprescription Treatments

• Head stuffiness and tinnitus occur together with viral infections such as the common cold. In these cases, treatment focuses on symptom relief. Use over-the-counter cold and flu medicines as directed for temporary relief. Antihistamines might reduce stuffiness. If problems persist longer than a week or two, you might be dealing with a bacterial infection and you should seek medical treatment.
  
  

Prescriptions

• Bacteria can cause sinus and ear infections with stuffiness and ear ringing as symptoms. Bacteria infections require antibiotics for proper treatment. Some people might mistake ear wax buildup for an ear infection. Consult a doctor before attempting to remove ear wax because it can cause further irritation if the actual problem is an infection. Prescription antidepressants might be used to treat some cases of tinnitus, though those which occur with symptoms of congestion and stuffiness are not usually treated in this manner.
  
  

Lifestyle Changes

• You can take several steps at home to treat tinnitus and head stuffiness. Stress management and noise control can reduce ear ringing, along with reducing your exposure to possible irritants such as nicotine and alcohol. Over-the-counter cold, sinus or allergy medications can be used as needed to temporarily relieve symptoms.
  
  

Alternative Medicines

• Alternative treatment helps in some cases, depending on the cause. Tinnitus treatment includes acupuncture and hypnosis, though these are likely not useful in relieving stuffiness. Other options include herbal treatment with ginkgo and zinc supplements. Check with your physician before starting any alternative medicine therapies.
  
  

Prevention

• Prevent future head stuffiness and tinnitus by boosting the immune system through proper diet, exercise and rest. Manage tinnitus on an ongoing basis as needed and see your doctor if symptoms continue or worsen. When you do get sick, avoid sniffing, which encourages bacterial growth and infection in the sinuses and can worsen congestion and tinnitus. See a doctor if an illness does not resolve itself within a few days.