Pressure in Ear

Have you ever felt like your ear is full or blocked? Maybe your ear feels like it has pressure inside, and it won’t go away. That feeling can be annoying and even a little scary. You might wonder what is causing it and what you can do to make it better. Let’s talk about what causes pressure in your ear and how to find relief.

What Does Pressure in the Ear Feel Like?

Pressure in the ear can feel different for everyone. Some people say it feels like their ear is stuffed with cotton. Others say it feels like their ear is underwater. You might notice other things too, like:

Your hearing sounds muffled.
You hear a popping or clicking noise.
You feel pain in your ear.
You feel dizzy.

What Causes Pressure in the Ear?

Changes in Air Pressure

Have you ever felt your ears pop on an airplane or when driving up a mountain? That happens because the air pressure outside your body is changing quickly. Your ears need time to adjust.

Ear Wax Buildup

Sometimes, too much ear wax can block your ear canal. This can make you feel like there is pressure in your ear and can also make it hard to hear. An audiologist can perform ear wax removal to ensure your ears are clean and healthy.

Sinus Problems or Colds

When you have a cold or allergies, your nose and ears can get stuffed up. The tubes in your ears, called Eustachian tubes, can get blocked. This can cause pressure in your ears.

Ear Infections

Ear infections happen when germs get inside your ear and cause swelling. When you have an ear infection, one of the telltale signs is feeling pain or having a sensation of fullness in the ears.

Fluid in the Ear

Sometimes fluid can get trapped behind your eardrum. This can happen after swimming, a cold, or an ear infection. The fluid can cause pressure and affect your hearing.

How Can You Relieve Ear Pressure?

Opening Your Mouth (Swallowing/Yawning)

Swallowing or yawning can help open up your Eustachian tubes. This can balance the pressure in your ears.

Chewing Gum

Chewing gum can also help pop your ears, especially when you are on an airplane or driving in the mountains.

Take a Hot Shower

Being exposed to steam or humidity may help ease ear pressure. Try taking a hot shower to help clear your sinuses and open up the ears.

Use a Warm Cloth

Place a warm cloth over your ear for a few minutes. This can help reduce swelling and ease pressure.

Try Nasal Spray or Decongestants

If you have a stuffy nose or sinus problems, a nasal spray or medicine can help reduce swelling and open your Eustachian tubes.

Avoid Using Cotton Swabs

Do not stick anything in your ear to remove wax. This can push the wax deeper and cause more pressure or damage your ear.

See an Audiologist or Doctor

If your ear pressure does not go away, or if you feel pain, it’s a good idea to see a professional.

An audiologist can check your ears and help find the cause of your pressure.

When Should You Get Help?

Sometimes ear pressure can be a sign of a bigger problem. See a doctor or audiologist if you have:

Pain that gets worse.
Trouble hearing that does not get better.
Dizziness or balance problems.
Fluid or pus coming from your ear.

RK Audiology connects you to expert audiologists in Austin, TX.