Introduction
Have you ever experienced a persistent cough accompanied by ear pain at the same time? When cough develops from a cold or rhinitis, bronchial inflammation can spread through the Eustachian tube to the middle ear (inside the ear), causing ear pain. This complex symptom is difficult to resolve with medication alone. In traditional Chinese medicine, there are acupoints that simultaneously regulate respiratory and ear, nose, and throat functions, and when stimulated correctly, they can provide rapid symptom relief.
Five Best Acupoints for Cough and Ear Pain
1. GV14
Location: Located in the depression below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra at the back of the neck (the bone that protrudes most when you bend your neck forward).
Effects: GV14 is the acupoint that governs all points on the yang meridians of the body, strengthening immunity and promoting qi and blood circulation throughout the body. In particular, it calms cough caused by respiratory infection and simultaneously reduces systemic inflammation, helping to relieve ear pain.
Acupressure Technique: Apply slow, vertical pressure with your middle finger or thumb for 5-10 seconds, then gently massage in circular motions. It is effective to stimulate this point 3-4 times daily, about 1 minute per session. Drinking warm water or ginger tea after acupressure enhances the effect.
2. CV17
Location: Located on the breastbone in front of the chest, precisely at the midpoint of the line connecting the two nipples (the 4th intercostal space). It is approximately three finger-widths below the collarbone.
Effects: CV17 is an important acupoint that regulates the respiratory system and immune function. It normalizes lung function and calms inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, reducing cough. It also activates thoracic lymph node function, indirectly alleviating inflammation around the ears.
Acupressure Technique: Repeatedly press vertically with the tip of your index or middle finger about 3-5mm, then release. To avoid discomfort, use gentle pressure and stimulate 3 times daily for about 1 minute each time. Stimulating while taking slow, deep breaths further enhances respiratory relaxation.
3. LU7
Location: Located approximately 1.5 cun (thumb width) above the wrist crease on the inner side of the arm. It is in the depression above the styloid process of the radius (the prominent bone on the thumb side of the wrist).
Effects: LU7 is one of the most important acupoints on the lung meridian. It directly strengthens respiratory function, quickly calming cough. At the same time, it promotes blood circulation in the head and neck area, relieving pain caused by ear inflammation.
Acupressure Technique: Locate the acupoint with your thumb, then repeatedly press and release for 3-5 seconds with slight tenderness. Stimulate both arms, 4-5 times daily for about 1 minute each time. Stimulating while slightly bending your wrist helps locate the acupoint more accurately.
4. ST40
Location: Located 8 cun (4 finger-widths) below the lateral condyle of the tibia (the outer bone below the knee), on the outer side of the tibia (shin bone), approximately 2 finger-widths away.
Effects: ST40 is an acupoint on the gallbladder meridian, excellent for regulating mucus secretion and improving its flow. It thins phlegm produced during coughing, making it easier to expel, and simultaneously promotes lymph circulation in the ear, nose, and throat region, effectively relieving ear inflammation.
Acupressure Technique: Sitting or lying down, repeatedly locate the acupoint with your middle finger or thumb, then slowly press and release. Stimulate 3-4 times daily for about 2 minutes each time. You know you are at the correct location when you feel a slight pulling sensation in the calf during acupressure.
5. LU5
Location: Located in the fold on the inner side of the elbow (the elbow crease). More precisely, with the elbow slightly bent, it is on the lateral (outer) side of the biceps tendon on the front of the arm.
Effects: LU5 is an acupoint on the lung meridian, very effective for cough and asthma symptoms. It strengthens lung function and relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, quickly stopping cough. It also alleviates upper respiratory inflammation, reducing swelling and pain in tissues around the ears.
Acupressure Technique: With your arm extended, locate the acupoint with your thumb or middle finger, then repeatedly press vertically and release. Stimulate both arms, 3-4 times daily for about 1-2 minutes each time. Gently stretching your arm after acupressure further enhances the effect.
5-Minute Self-Care Routine
Morning (Upon waking): First stimulate GV14 at the back of your neck for 30 seconds, then press LU5 on both arms for 30 seconds each. This activates respiratory function before starting your day.
Midday (1-2 PM): Stimulate CV17 at the center of your chest for 1 minute, and LU7 on both wrists for 30 seconds each. Stimulating during this time can prevent symptom worsening in the afternoon.
Evening (Before bed): Press ST40 on both legs for 1 minute each, then stimulate GV14 again for 30 seconds. Stimulating before sleep allows respiratory symptoms to improve during rest.
Additional Tips: When stimulating each acupoint, take 3-5 slow, deep breaths, and applying warm compresses to your wrists or neck before stimulation further enhances the effect. When symptoms are severe, you may add one more stimulation session during the day.
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