What’s Causing Your Clogged Ears? See the Possibilities

A clogged ear can be a frustrating and uncomfortable sensation, making sounds seem muffled and creating a feeling of fullness or pressure.

This common issue often resolves on its own, but it can sometimes signal an underlying condition that needs attention.

The feeling of a clogged ear typically arises from a blockage or pressure imbalance in the outer, middle, or inner ear.

This sensation is more common than many realize. For instance, studies show that cerumen impaction, or excessive earwax, affects about 10% of children and 5% of adults, with rates soaring to over 30% in older adults.

This is just one of many potential culprits. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward finding effective relief and knowing when it’s time to seek professional medical advice.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various causes of a clogged ear, from simple earwax buildup to more complex issues like Eustachian tube dysfunction and infections.

We will explore a wide range of safe and effective home remedies, over-the-counter solutions, and medical treatments.

By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of why your ear feels clogged and what you can do about it.

Why Does My Ear Feel Clogged? Understanding the Anatomy

To understand why you have a clogged ear, it helps to know a little about the ear’s structure.

The ear is a complex organ divided into three main parts, and a problem in the first two is usually responsible for that plugged-up feeling.

• The Outer Ear: This includes the part you can see (the pinna) and the ear canal, which leads to the eardrum. The ear canal is where earwax is produced and where blockages from wax or water can occur.
• The Middle Ear: This is an air-filled space behind the eardrum containing three tiny bones essential for hearing. It is connected to the back of your nose and throat by a narrow channel called the Eustachian tube.
• The Inner Ear: This part contains the cochlea (the hearing organ) and the vestibular system (for balance). Problems here are less likely to cause a simple clogged feeling and more often lead to dizziness or significant hearing loss.

The sensation of a clogged ear happens for two primary reasons: a physical blockage in the ear canal (outer ear) or a pressure imbalance in the middle ear, most often due to a problem with the Eustachian tube.

Identifying the location of the problem is key to finding the right solution.

Common Culprits: Blockages in the Outer Ear Canal

When the ear canal is obstructed, sound waves can’t reach the eardrum properly, leading to muffled hearing and a feeling of being clogged.

These are the most frequent causes of an outer ear blockage.

Earwax Impaction (Cerumen Impaction): More Than Just Wax

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural, protective substance. It lubricates the ear canal, traps dust and debris, and has antibacterial properties.

Normally, the ear is self-cleaning, jaw movements from talking and chewing help migrate old wax out of the ear canal, where it dries and flakes off.

However, sometimes this process fails. The glands may produce too much wax, or the wax can be pushed deeper into the canal, leading to a blockage known as cerumen impaction.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, this is a common issue, particularly in older adults and those who use hearing aids or earplugs.

Symptoms of earwax impaction include:

• A feeling of fullness or a clogged ear
• Muffled hearing or partial hearing loss
• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
• Itching, odor, or discharge
• Earache or dizziness

A Word of Caution: Never use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects to try to dig out earwax. This is a leading cause of impaction, as it often pushes the wax deeper, and can risk injuring the delicate ear canal or even perforating the eardrum.

Water in the Ear (Otitis Externa)

After swimming, showering, or bathing, water can sometimes get trapped in the ear canal.

This can create a clogged or sloshing sensation and muffle hearing.

While often just a temporary annoyance, trapped water creates a moist environment that is ideal for bacteria to grow.

If not resolved, this can lead to an outer ear infection known as otitis externa, or “swimmer’s ear“.

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear start with itching and a clogged feeling but can progress to significant pain (especially when the outer ear is touched), redness, swelling, and discharge.

According to WebMD, it’s crucial to keep ears dry and seek treatment if symptoms develop.

Foreign Objects in the Ear

This is most common in young children, who may insert small items like beads, food, or toy parts into their ear canal.

However, it can happen to adults as well, with pieces of cotton swabs or hearing aid parts sometimes breaking off and getting stuck.

A foreign object can cause pain, a clogged sensation, and potential infection if not removed.

Removal should always be performed by a healthcare professional to avoid pushing the object further in or damaging the eardrum.

The Pressure Problem: Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)

If your ear canal is clear but your ear still feels clogged, the problem likely lies deeper, in the middle ear.

The most common culprit here is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD).

What is the Eustachian Tube and What Does It Do?

The Eustachian tube is a small, narrow tube that connects your middle ear to the back of your nose (nasopharynx).

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it has three vital jobs:

1. Pressure Equalization: It opens briefly when you swallow, yawn, or chew to allow air to flow in and out, equalizing the pressure in your middle ear with the pressure outside. This is why your ears “pop” on an airplane.
2. Drainage: It allows mucus and fluid to drain from the middle ear.
3. Protection: It protects the middle ear from pathogens traveling from the nose and throat.

When the Eustachian tube is blocked or doesn’t open and close properly, it’s called Eustachian Tube Dysfunction.

This failure to equalize pressure creates a vacuum in the middle ear, pulling the eardrum inward and causing a feeling of fullness, pressure, or a clogged ear.

Causes of ETD: Colds, Allergies, and Altitude Changes

ETD is incredibly common, affecting an estimated 5% of adults in the U.S., according to a study in JAMA Otolaryngology. The tube can become blocked for several reasons:

• Inflammation and Mucus: The most common cause is swelling of the tube’s lining due to a cold, flu, sinus infection, or allergies. Excess mucus can also clog the tube, preventing it from opening.
• Altitude Changes (Barotrauma): Rapid changes in air pressure, such as during airplane takeoff and landing, scuba diving, or driving in mountains, can overwhelm the Eustachian tube’s ability to equalize pressure. This is known as ear barotrauma.
• Anatomical Differences: Children are more prone to ETD and ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower, and more horizontal, making them easier to clog.

If you have a clogged ear accompanied by a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, or sneezing, ETD is the most likely cause.

When Infection is the Cause of a Clogged Ear

A clogged ear can be both a precursor to and a symptom of an ear infection.

When fluid gets trapped in the middle ear due to ETD, it becomes a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria.

Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media)

A middle ear infection, or acute otitis media, occurs when the fluid trapped behind the eardrum becomes infected.

As the body fights the infection, pus and pressure build up, pushing on the eardrum.

This causes the primary symptoms of an ear infection.

According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of a middle ear infection include:

• A persistent clogged ear or feeling of fullness
• Ear pain (otalgia), which can be sharp and sudden or dull and continuous
• Muffled hearing
• Fever
• Fluid drainage from the ear (if the eardrum ruptures)
• In young children, you might also see ear pulling, irritability, and trouble sleeping.

Sinus Infections (Sinusitis)

Your sinuses are air-filled cavities in your skull that are connected to your nasal passages.

When you have a sinus infection, these cavities become inflamed and filled with mucus.

Because the entire system is connected, this inflammation and pressure can easily affect the Eustachian tubes, leading to a clogged ear.

Treating the underlying sinusitis is often necessary to relieve the ear pressure.

Less Common, But Important, Causes of a Clogged Ear

While the causes above account for the vast majority of cases, a persistent clogged feeling can sometimes be a sign of a more unusual or serious condition.

Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes a specific set of symptoms.

A feeling of ear fullness or a clogged ear is one of the hallmark signs, but it is typically accompanied by episodes of severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ear (tinnitus), and fluctuating hearing loss.

Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)

This is a rare, noncancerous tumor that grows on the main nerve leading from the inner ear to the brain.

As the tumor grows, it can press on the hearing and balance nerves, causing gradual hearing loss in one ear, tinnitus, and unsteadiness.

A feeling of a clogged ear is often one of the earliest symptoms, as noted by Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull and is located very close to your ear canal.

Inflammation or misalignment of this joint (TMJ disorder) can cause symptoms that are often mistaken for an ear problem, including ear pain, tinnitus, and a sensation of a clogged ear.

COVID-19 and Post-Viral Inflammation

Respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), are well-known for causing inflammation in the upper airways.

This can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction and a clogged ear sensation.

For some individuals, this feeling of ear fullness can persist even after other symptoms of the infection have resolved, as part of what is sometimes called “long COVID“.

How to Unclog Your Ears: A Comprehensive Guide to Remedies

The right treatment for a clogged ear depends entirely on the cause. Here’s a breakdown of methods you can try, from simple maneuvers to medical interventions.

At-Home Maneuvers for Pressure-Related Blockages (ETD)

If your clogged ear is due to pressure changes or a cold, these techniques can help open the Eustachian tube:

• Swallow, Yawn, or Chew Gum: These simple actions engage the muscles that help open the Eustachian tube.
• The Valsalva Maneuver: Take a deep breath, pinch your nostrils closed, and gently blow out of your nose with your mouth shut. You should feel a “pop” as the pressure equalizes. Important: Do not blow too hard, as this can damage your eardrum. This is only effective for pressure issues, not fluid or wax.
• The Toynbee Maneuver: Pinch your nose and take a few sips of water. Swallowing while your nose is plugged can help open the tube.

Home Remedies for Earwax Buildup

If you suspect earwax is the problem, the goal is to soften the hardened wax so it can come out on its own. 

Do not try these remedies if you have a perforated eardrum or ear tubes.

1. Use Softening Drops: Lie with the affected ear facing up. Use an eyedropper to apply a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin, or commercial earwax removal drops into the ear canal.
2. Wait: Stay in that position for 5-10 minutes to allow the oil to penetrate and soften the wax.
3. Drain: Tilt your head the other way to let the oil and softened wax drain out. You can do this twice a day for a few days.
4. Irrigation (with caution): After a day or two of softening, you can gently flush the ear with warm water using a rubber-bulb syringe. The Mayo Clinic advises tilting your head and gently pulling your outer ear up and back to straighten the canal during irrigation.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Solutions

• Decongestants: If your clogged ear is from a cold or sinus congestion, oral decongestants (like pseudoephedrine) or nasal decongestant sprays (like oxymetazoline) can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and Eustachian tube. Nasal sprays should not be used for more than 3 days to avoid “rebound” congestion.
• Nasal Steroids: For allergy-related clogging, OTC nasal steroid sprays (like fluticasone or triamcinolone) can reduce inflammation over time.
• Antihistamines: If allergies are the root cause, antihistamines can help manage the allergic reaction that leads to congestion.
• Earwax Removal Kits: These kits, often containing carbamide peroxide, are designed to soften and break up earwax. Follow the package directions carefully.

What NOT to Do: Practices to Avoid

Some popular but dangerous methods should be avoided at all costs:

• Cotton Swabs: As mentioned, they push wax deeper and risk injury.
• Ear Candling: This practice involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear. There is no scientific evidence that it works. The FDA has issued warnings against it due to the risk of burns, ear canal obstruction from candle wax, and eardrum perforation.

Comparing Causes of a Clogged Ear

This table provides a quick overview of the common causes, their location, key symptoms, and typical first-line treatments.

Cause	Primary Location	Common Accompanying Symptoms	Typical First-Line Treatment
Earwax Impaction	Outer Ear (Ear Canal)	Muffled hearing, tinnitus, itching	Ear-softening drops (oil, peroxide), professional removal
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)	Middle Ear	Popping/crackling sounds, often with a cold or allergies	Swallowing, yawning, Valsalva maneuver, decongestants
Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)	Middle Ear	Sharp or dull ear pain, fever, fluid drainage	Pain relief, observation, antibiotics if bacterial
Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)	Outer Ear (Ear Canal)	Itching, pain when touching the ear, redness	Keeping ear dry, antibiotic ear drops
Altitude Change (Barotrauma)	Middle Ear	Occurs during flight/diving, can cause pain	Chewing gum, swallowing, Valsalva maneuver

How to Prevent a Clogged Ear

While not all causes are preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing a clogged ear.

• Manage Allergies: If you have seasonal allergies, work with your doctor to find an effective treatment plan, which may include antihistamines or nasal steroids to prevent the inflammation that leads to ETD.
• Fly Smart: During airplane ascent and descent, chew gum, suck on candy, or frequently swallow. Stay awake during these times, as you don’t swallow as often when you’re asleep. For infants, offer a bottle or pacifier.
• Keep Ears Dry: After swimming or showering, tilt your head to each side to help water drain. You can gently dry your outer ear with a towel or use a hairdryer on a low, cool setting held several inches away.
• Don’t Over-Clean: Let your ears’ natural cleaning mechanism do its job. Avoid putting anything smaller than your elbow in your ear. If you are prone to wax buildup, talk to your doctor about a safe maintenance routine.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially when you have a cold, can help keep mucus thin and less likely to clog your Eustachian tubes.

When to See a Doctor for a Clogged Ear: Recognizing Red Flags

Most cases of a clogged ear resolve with time and home care. However, you should contact a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden or Severe Hearing Loss: As discussed, this could be a medical emergency (SSNHL).
• Severe Pain: Intense, unrelenting pain is not typical for a simple blockage.
• Dizziness or Vertigo: A feeling of spinning or loss of balance could indicate an inner ear problem.
• Fever: A high fever can be a sign of a significant infection.
• Fluid Drainage: Any discharge, especially if it’s bloody or foul-smelling, needs evaluation.
• Symptoms Lasting More Than a Week: If your clogged ear doesn’t improve with home remedies after several days, it’s time to get it checked.
• Facial Weakness or Numbness: This is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention.

Medical Treatments for a Persistently Clogged Ear

If home remedies fail or your condition is more complex, a doctor can offer several effective treatments.

Professional Earwax Removal

If you have impacted earwax, an ENT specialist can remove it safely.

Methods include using a small, curved instrument called a curette, using suction, or performing a more powerful irrigation than can be done at home.

Prescription Medications

For infections, a doctor may prescribe medication. This could include oral antibiotics for a bacterial middle ear infection or prescription-strength steroid nasal sprays to treat severe inflammation from allergies or ETD.

Surgical Options

For chronic or severe cases of ETD or recurrent middle ear infections, a surgical procedure may be recommended.

• Myringotomy (Ear Tubes): A surgeon makes a tiny incision in the eardrum and inserts a small ventilation tube. This tube allows pressure to equalize and fluid to drain, bypassing the dysfunctional Eustachian tube. The tubes typically fall out on their own after 6-18 months.
• Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation: A newer, minimally invasive procedure where a small balloon is inserted into the Eustachian tube via the nose and inflated for a short period. This helps to stretch and open the tube, restoring its function. According to Cleveland Clinic, recovery is often very quick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a clogged ear last?

The duration depends on the cause. A clogged ear from air pressure may resolve in minutes, while one from a cold can last a week. If caused by earwax or an infection, it may persist until treated, which could take longer.

2. Why does my ear feel clogged but there’s no wax?

This is a classic sign of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD). The clogged feeling comes from negative pressure in the middle ear, not a blockage in the ear canal. It’s common with colds, allergies, or sinus issues.

3. Can I use a cotton swab to clean my clogged ear?

No. Using a cotton swab is one of the worst things you can do. It pushes wax deeper, can cause impaction, and risks injuring your ear canal or eardrum. Let your ears clean themselves or use safe softening methods.

4. How can I unclog my ears fast?

For pressure issues, try swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva maneuver. For water, tilt your head. For wax, quick relief is unlikely, softening drops are the first step. If symptoms are severe or sudden, see a doctor instead of seeking a fast fix.

5. Is it normal for a clogged ear to make crackling or popping sounds?

Yes, this is very common with Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. The sounds are caused by the sticky, blocked tube trying to open or by small movements of fluid and air in the middle ear. It’s usually not a sign of a serious problem.

6. Can stress cause a clogged ear?

While stress doesn’t directly cause a blockage, it can worsen conditions that do. For example, stress can exacerbate TMJ symptoms (jaw clenching) or trigger tinnitus, both of which can be associated with a feeling of ear fullness.

7. Why did my ear get clogged after a shower?

This can happen for two reasons. Either a small amount of water became trapped in your ear canal, or the warm, humid air caused existing earwax to swell and expand, creating a sudden blockage.

8. Will a clogged ear go away by itself?

Often, yes. Clogged ears from minor colds or air pressure changes usually resolve on their own. However, impacted earwax or infections typically require some form of treatment to clear up and prevent complications.

Conclusion

A clogged ear is a common and usually benign annoyance, but it’s one that shouldn’t be ignored.

By understanding the potential causes—from a simple wax blockage in the outer ear to a pressure problem in the middle ear—you are empowered to choose the right course of action.

Simple home remedies and maneuvers are often enough to provide relief.

However, it is equally important to recognize the red flags that signal a more serious issue.

Sudden hearing loss, severe pain, dizziness, or fever are signs that you should stop self-treating and seek professional medical care immediately.

Your hearing is precious, and prompt action can make all the difference.

If your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider or an ENT specialist.

They can provide a definitive diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Have you ever dealt with a stubborn clogged ear? Share your experience or questions in the comments below!

Medical Disclaimer

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.