My ear feels blocked and I can't hear properly: What to do

Common causes of clogged ears

• Earwax buildup: An accumulation of earwax can block the ear canal, resulting in congestion and reduced hearing clarity.  
• Ear infection: Infections in the outer or middle ear can cause fluid accumulation and swelling, leading to blocked ears.  
• Water in the ear: Water can become trapped after swimming or showering, causing a brief blockage. 
• Sinus congestion: Colds, allergies, or sinus infections can cause shifts in pressure, leading to a blocked ear. 
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: This tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps regulate ear pressure, can become clogged due to colds or sinus issues, leading to a feeling of pressure.  
• Allergies: Allergic reactions, particularly when persistent, can cause fluid retention or inflammation in the ear, causing a blocked sensation.  
• Air pressure changes: Sudden altitude changes, such as when flying or diving, can result in temporary ear blockage due to pressure imbalances.  

Less common causes

1. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ): Temporomandibular joint disorders involve complications related to the joint that links the jaw to the skull. Such issues can manifest as a sensation of fullness in the ear due to the proximity of the TMJ to the auditory structures. Inflammation or misalignment of the joint may lead to referred pressure or discomfort in the ear region. 
2. Acoustic neuroma: Acoustic neuroma is characterised by a benign tumour on the vestibular nerve, which can result in sensations of pressure or fullness in the ear. This condition may also be accompanied by hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disturbances. Timely diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. 
3. Cholesteatoma: Cholesteatoma, often associated with repeated ear infections or injuries, involves the abnormal proliferation of skin within the middle ear, potentially leading to chronic infections, discharge from the ear, and a sensation of fullness or blockage. Without intervention, this condition may damage adjacent structures and necessitate surgical correction. 
4. Barotrauma: Barotrauma occurs when rapid variations in air pressure—such as those experienced during air travel, scuba diving, or high-altitude ascents—affect the ears' ability to equalise pressure. While this condition frequently resolves spontaneously, it may sometimes require medical intervention to address persistent symptoms. 
5. Meniere’s disease: Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can lead to recurrent episodes of ear fullness, alongside symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, and varying degrees of hearing loss. The precise aetiology of this condition remains unclear, but it is believed to involve an accumulation of fluid in the inner ear. 
6. Otosclerosis: Otosclerosis is marked by abnormal bone formation in the middle ear, which interferes with the movement of the ossicles, resulting in hearing difficulties and a continual sensation of ear blockage. This condition typically progresses gradually and may necessitate surgical treatment for resolution. 
7. Foreign objects: Foreign objects or irritants, such as small toys, insects, or debris, may occasionally become lodged in the ear canal, contributing to a sensation of blockage. Qualified healthcare professionals should always conduct the removal of such objects to avoid causing additional injury. 

What can help: Home treatments

1. Swallowing and yawning: Engaging in these actions may facilitate the opening of the Eustachian tubes, equalising the pressure in the ears. 
2. Chewing gum and sucking on candy: These activities promote swallowing, which may assist in alleviating ear pressure. 
3. Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water has the potential to relieve congestion that could be contributing to ear blockage. 
4. Warm compress: Applying a warm cloth to the affected ear may alleviate discomfort and encourage drainage. 
5. Valsalva maneuver: This technique involves gently exhaling while pinching the nose and keeping the mouth closed, which can help equalise ear pressure; however, you should make sure to avoid excessive force during this process. If discomfort persists, consult a doctor.  
6. Hydrogen peroxide drops: Administering a few drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide may soften earwax, facilitating its removal, but avoid this if you suspect a perforated eardrum or infection it is recommended to consult a physician before use. 
7. Over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines: These medications can alleviate nasal or sinus congestion, reducing pressure in the ears. 
8. Olive oil or warm glycerin: Introducing a few warm drops into the ear can soften earwax and promote its natural movement, but again, avoid this if you suspect a perforated eardrum or infection it is recommended to consult a physician before use. 

When to see a doctor?

Get treatment options at home with telehealth

• Telehealth appointments: Telehealth appointments enable individuals to connect with qualified medical practitioners remotely to discuss various symptoms, including ear pressure, pain, or auditory difficulties. During these consultations, the doctor evaluates the patient's condition and recommends appropriate treatment or management strategies. 
• Online scripts: In cases where medication is necessary, such as ear drops for cerumen removal or antibiotics for infections, prescriptions can be generated online. These prescriptions may be filled at a local pharmacy or delivered to the patient’s home on the same day. 
• Referrals: Should further evaluation be required, patients can receive referrals for diagnostic tests or consultations with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. 
• Medical certificates: For individuals whose symptoms impact their professional or daily activities, telehealth services can provide same-day medical certificates designed to meet specific needs.