Clearing A Clogged Ear

Clogged Ear Causes

A clogged ear can be caused by any number of things, but here are the most common. Not all require a visit to a doctor, but if your clogged ear goes on for more than a day or two, it's probably best to seek some professional medical advice.

Ear infections This is the number one reason parents take their kids to a doctor. Kids get more ear infections than adults because their Eustachian tubes and ear structure haven't matured. The anatomy of their ears makes it more likely for fluid to collect in the ears and clog them up. An infection follows, as do pain and sleepless nights for parents. But ear infections can happen to adults too as the result of a cold, flu, respiratory problem, and allergens or foreign objects that get inside the ear and cause trouble. 

Inflammation Inflammation is the first cousin to an ear infection. Inflammation can cause a clogged ear as tissue swells. Excess ear wax can also lead to inflammation. So can sticking a forcing object in your ear, which can cause tissue damage.

Fluid in the ear Fluid build up often comes from a cold, the flu or sinus irritation. However, it can also be caused by water getting into the ear from swimming. When there's a chronic buildup of fluid in the ear, it may be necessary to have ear tubes placed in them for drainage.

Excess ear wax build up Too much wax can cause ear clogging, usually because the person isn't cleaning their ears properly or often enough. It can also happen when someone tries to use a cotton swab - or a finger - for clearing a clogged ear. This usually makes the clog worse by pushing the wax farther back into the ear and possibly even impacting it. Excess ear wax build up can easily be cleared by your doctor during an office visit, and there are a number of non-prescription ear wax removal products available at most grocery stores, pharmacies or online. Also see our article on the pros and cons of ear candles.

Foreign objects Most adults are smart enough not to put foreign objects in their ears, but occasionally something gets in there by accident. Foreign substances like sand or dirt getting into the ear accidentally can cause clogging.

Air pressure changes Most of us have traveled in airplanes and experienced a clogged ear after flying because of altitude changes. Often, this is not truly a clog - it's just a sensation caused by a difference between the air pressure levels inside the ear and outside the ear. There are a number of quick and simple remedies for clearing a clogged ear after flying, including yawning, chewing gum, or just opening your mouth as wide as you can. If the clogged feeling lasts for more than a few hours after the flight however, you might want to check with your doctor, because some other problem may be going on.