To help unplug your ears, you may want to try “popping” them by plugging your nose and blowing out while keeping your mouth closed.
Clogged ears can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Altitude changes
- Earwax buildup
- Fluid buildup in the middle ear (otitis media)
- Colds and allergies
- Sinuses infections
- Foreign objects in the ear canal
There are a few things you can try to unclog your ears at home:
- Valsalva maneuver: Pinch your nose shut and close your lips, then gently blow out. You should feel a popping sensation in your ears.
- Yawn or chew: Yawning and chewing can help to open up your eustachian tubes, which connect your middle ear to your throat.
- Apply a warm compress: Place a warm washcloth or heating pad over your affected ear for 5-10 minutes. This can help to loosen earwax and reduce inflammation.
- Use over-the-counter ear drops: Ear drops can help to soften earwax and make it easier to remove. Be sure to follow the directions on the package.
If your ears are clogged due to fluid buildup, you may need to see a doctor for antibiotics or other treatment.
Here are some additional tips to help prevent clogged ears:
- Avoid using cotton swabs in your ears. This can push earwax deeper into the ear canal and cause blockages.
- If you have allergies or sinus infections, treat them promptly to help prevent fluid from building up in your middle ear.
- If you fly frequently, try to chew gum or yawn during takeoff and landing to help equalize the pressure in your ears.
If you have any concerns about your clogged ears, or if they do not improve with home treatment, see a doctor.