3 Common Reasons Your Ears Feel Clogged

Have you ever had that muffled sensation where it seems like you’re hearing everything through a wall? If your ears feel clogged, you’re not alone. This problem happens to a lot of people and can be really uncomfortable. But if you know why it happens, you can figure out what to do about it. Let’s look at three common reasons why your ears might feel clogged.

1. Earwax Buildup Might Be Blocking Your Ear Canal

One of the most common reasons for that clogged feeling is earwax buildup. Earwax, also called cerumen, is made by glands in your ear canal to protect your ears by catching dust and dirt. Usually, earwax moves out of your ear naturally, but sometimes it builds up and blocks your ear. When this happens, sounds can be muffled, and you might feel some pressure.

Doctors say that many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears because they think it helps, but it can actually push the wax further in, making the blockage worse. Instead of trying to fix it on your own, talk to your doctor about safe ways to manage earwax. There are over-the-counter ear drops that can help soften the wax, but it’s best to see a doctor if you’re not sure.

2. Fluid in the Ear Might Be Causing Hearing Problems

Another reason your ears might feel clogged is fluid buildup. This can happen after a cold, allergies, or even after swimming, when water gets trapped in the ear canal. The Eustachian tube connects your middle ear to the back of your throat and helps control pressure and drain fluid. If this tube gets blocked because of swelling or congestion, fluid can get stuck in your middle ear. This can make your ear feel full or like there’s pressure, and it can also make hearing more difficult.

To help with fluid buildup, doctors suggest yawning, swallowing, or chewing gum to open up the Eustachian tubes. If these don’t help and the feeling lasts for more than a few days, you should see your doctor. They might recommend medicine like decongestants to help drain the fluid.

3. Changes in Air Pressure Can Make Your Ears Feel Blocked

Changes in air pressure can also make your ears feel clogged. This happens a lot when you’re on an airplane during takeoff or landing or even when driving up a mountain. The pressure difference between the inside of your ear and the outside environment can make your ears feel blocked until they adjust.

To balance the pressure, you can try the Valsalva maneuver—gently blowing while keeping your nose pinched and mouth closed. Be careful not to blow too hard, as this could cause harm to your eardrum. Swallowing or sucking on candy can also help relieve pressure. If you have this problem often, especially during flights, talking to a doctor may help you find ways to manage it.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your ears feel clogged for a long time or if you have pain, hearing loss, or dizziness, it’s important to make an appointment with a doctor. These could be signs of an infection or another problem that needs medical attention.

The Takeaway

Feeling like your ears are clogged can happen for different reasons, like earwax buildup, fluid buildup, or changes in air pressure. If home remedies don’t work or if the problem keeps happening, seeing a doctor is the best way to protect your ear health.