Most people complain of blocked or clogged ears, which can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Blocked ears, also known as Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD), occur when the eustachian tubes, connecting the middle ear to the back of your nose, become blocked. This can cause a feeling of fullness, pressure, or discomfort in the ears, along with muffled hearing. In this article, we list various tips, remedies, and preventive measures to help you unclog your ears and restore clear hearing.
According to Stanford Medicine, when the Eustachian tube is blocked, it separates the middle ear from the external environment. The lining of the middle ear absorbs the trapped air, creating negative pressure that draws the eardrum inward. The eardrum, which is thin and flexible like plastic wrap, is richly supplied with nerves. As it stretches inward, individuals often feel pain, pressure, and a decline in hearing ability.
Causes Of Blocked Ears
Identifying the underlying cause can guide us in selecting the most appropriate remedy for blocked ears. Here are some of its causes:
- Earwax buildup
- Changes in altitude or air pressure (during air travel or scuba diving)
- Sinus congestion
- Allergies
- Ear infections
- Following a swim, water gets trapped in your ear canal
Home Remedies for Unclogging Ears
Warm Compress
Placing a warm, damp cloth on the affected ear can help soften earwax and relieve discomfort. Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and gently place it over the affected ear for a few minutes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), steam can be beneficial in relieving blockage when the cause of ear congestion is an infection or allergies. This is because the sinuses are directly connected to the ears.
Ear Drops
You can also use over-the-counter ear drops to help soften and loosen stubborn earwax, making it easier to remove. Make sure to pay close attention to the instructions on the label of the product.
Ear Plugs
There are some earplugs available in the market that can help people dealing with aeroplane ears. These products feature specialised filters intended to facilitate airflow and balance pressure within the ears. Although there isn't substantial scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, anecdotal accounts indicate that these earplugs may provide relief.
Saline Solution
A saline solution made with warm water and salt can help flush out excess earwax and debris. Use a bulb syringe to gently irrigate the ear canal with the saline solution, being careful not to insert the syringe too deeply.
Also Read: Meningitis And Hearing Loss: Expert Explains The Connection And How To Prevent It
Chewing or Yawning
Simple actions like chewing gum or yawning can help equalise the air pressure in the ears, making them feel less clogged, especially during changes in altitude.
How To Prevent Blocked Ears
To minimise the risk of ear blockage and maintain ear health, consider incorporating the following preventive measures into your routine:
- Regular Ear Hygiene: Clean your ears regularly with a washcloth or cotton swab, being careful not to insert objects too deeply into the ear canal, as this can push wax further in and increase the risk of blockage.
- Ear Protection: Wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments to prevent damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear and reduce the risk of hearing loss.
- Avoid Q-Tips: Refrain from using cotton swabs (Q-tips) to clean your ears, as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal and cause blockage.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any health issues.]