When Your Ears Feel Plugged, But It’s Not Wax: What Now?

One possible reason for that plugged feeling in your ears is dysfunction of the Eustachian tubes. These tubes connect your middle ear to the back of your nose and throat and are responsible for regulating air pressure and draining fluids from the middle ear. When they become blocked or don't function properly, you may experience symptoms such as ear fullness, popping sensations, or even temporary hearing loss.

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Solution: To alleviate symptoms related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, try techniques like swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum to help equalize pressure in your ears. You can also try the Valsalva maneuver by gently blowing air through your nose while pinching it shut, being careful not to blow too forcefully to avoid causing damage. Here's a quick video on how to do the Valsalva. Chronic dysfunction should be discussed with your family doctor for more treatment.

Another common cause of feeling like your ears are plugged is sinus congestion; especially with this 2023/2024 cold strain going around and allergy season. When the nasal passages are blocked due to allergies, a cold, or sinusitis, it can affect the pressure in your ears and lead to that uncomfortable sensation of fullness.

Solution: Addressing the underlying cause of your sinus congestion is key. This might involve using over-the-counter decongestants or nasal sprays, antihistamines, staying hydrated, using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, or trying natural remedies like saline nasal rinses to help clear your sinuses.

Sometimes, fluid can accumulate in the middle ear due to conditions like otitis media (middle ear infection) or serous otitis media (fluid buildup without infection). This fluid can create a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears.

Solution: If you suspect fluid accumulation in your middle ear, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve antibiotics (if there’s an infection), ear tubes to help drain fluid, or simply allowing time for the fluid to resolve on its own.

Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull, can sometimes cause referred pain or pressure in the ears. This is because the TMJ is located close to the ear canal, and issues with it can affect nearby structures.

Solution: Managing TMJ disorder may involve lifestyle changes, such as avoiding chewing gum or hard foods, practicing stress-reduction techniques, or using oral splints or physical therapy exercises to improve jaw function. For more information, check in with your dentist.

Other less common factors outside of wax could also contribute to the sensation of plugged ears, including barotrauma (injury due to changes in air pressure, often experienced during air travel or scuba diving), or even certain medications that affect fluid balance in the body.

Solution: If you’ve ruled out the more common causes and are still experiencing persistent ear fullness or discomfort, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough examination, possibly including hearing tests or imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.