Your ears are probably one of those body parts you don’t spend a lot of time thinking about. Obviously they do a lot for you, but they typically do their job so well, you really don’t have to worry about them – until they get clogged.

Clogged ears are never fun. If you’ve ever flown, you most likely know the sensation of your ears plugging up. So irritating, right? Here’s what happens: The most common reason for ears to feel clogged or plugged is due to Eustachian Tube Dysfunction.

The Eustachian Tube connects the back of the nose to the middle ear and serves to protect, ventilate and drain the middle ear. It is normally closed, but opens when we chew, swallow or yawn. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction occurs when something prohibits the Eustachian Tube from opening and closing.

There are multiple causes for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and the most common cause of all may be impacted ear wax. Earwax can harden and cause a blockage in the ear. Blockages occur from sticking objects in your ear or from using a cotton swab in an attempt to clean the ear (which will ultimately only push the wax deeper into the ear).

Another common cause of “aeroplane ears” could off course be due to changes in air pressure. Flying in an aeroplane, driving up a steep mountain, or even scuba diving could cause clogging of the ears. Also, sinus infections, ear infections, colds and allergies could all be culprits.

A more severe cause of clogged ears is an Acoustic Neuroma. This is a benign growth that develops on the cranial nerve, which leads from the inner ear to the brain, and can put pressure on the inner ear.

So, what is the fastest way to bring your ears back to normal? The good news is that  clogged ear is usually temporary, which many people self-treat successfully with home remedies and over-the-counter decongestants.

Your ears will most likely go back to normal after a day if air pressure is the culprit. However, if you normally struggle with altitude changes, taking an over-the counter decongestant an hour before your flight starts descending, may be a good idea. Also if you have allergies, be sure to take your allergy medication before your flight.

If an ear infection is behind your blocked ears, you might have to wait until your body gets rid of the virus or bacteria. You may need antibiotics for this one, and it might take up to a week or two. Also, remember that clogged ears due to sinus infections could stick around for even longer.

If your ears feel clogged, try swallowing, yawning or chewing sugar-free gum to open your Eustachian Tubes. Or take a deep breath and try to blow out of your nose gently while pinching your nostrils closed and keeping your mouth shut. If you hear a popping noise, you know you have succeeded.

In most cases your blockage will take care of itself, but the general rule of thumb is that if the condition persist and/or other symptoms are present, see a medical practitioner.

Source: hearatlanta.com, neilsperlingmd.com, verywellhealth.com, medicalnewstoday.com, healthline.com, attune.com.au, widex.com, mayoclinic.org, hackensackmeridianhealth.org, starkeycanada.ca, starkey.com, womenshealthmag.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.