Plugged Ears Remedy

Plugged ears is a condition that is characterized by a sensation of blockage in the ears, causing muffling of noises. This condition is often experienced by airplane passengers, who feel ear popping along with hearing disturbances. It is considered a temporary ear problem that resolves on its own in most cases. However, if it is accompanied by other symptoms like pain or if it is persistent, you must seek medical attention. In mild cases, simple remedies may be sufficient to correct the condition.

Plugged ears is a condition that is often explained as a plugged-up sensation that may affect hearing. It can be caused by various reasons like blockage caused by foreign objects, insects that accidentally get inside the ear canal, accumulation of earwax, growths inside ear, ear diseases, allergic reactions, ear infections, influenza, migraines, sinus infections and traveling to higher altitudes. Even muscular tightness in the shoulders and neck is sometimes considered as plugged ear causes. Some of these factors cause obstruction of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the pharynx. One of the main functions of this passage is to maintain the air pressure on both sides of the eardrum by allowing air to pass in and out of the middle ear. Ideally, the air pressure on both sides of the eardrum should be the same.

In case of a blocked Eustachian tube, the pressure inside the middle ear lowers and as a result the eardrum gets pulled inwards, causing the plugged ear sensation. So, the Eustachian tube acts as an equalizer that helps to balance the ear pressure. In case of air travel, the air pressure changes are so fast that the Eustachian tube fails to normalize it immediately. It takes some time for the plugged ear sensation to subside, but it may recur repeatedly throughout the journey. It has been observed that in some people, Eustachian may not function properly and in such cases, this sensation may happen frequently.

How to Cure Plugged Ears

In most cases, this ear condition subsides on its own. The person may have a stuffy feeling inside the ears, along with occasional clicking. However, the duration of such plugged up feeling can range between a few hours to a few days or weeks, as per the underlying condition. In most cases, yawning or swallowing may do the trick. One of the common home remedies for plugged ears is to yawn with the mouth wide open. In some cases, steam inhalation or a hot shower may work wonders in relieving the condition. Some people find relief from the condition by placing a heating pad on the ear. This home remedy may work in some cases.

Another remedy is to take a deep breath and then, blow with the mouth and nostril shut. If successful, such blowing may be followed by a popping sound. If the condition does not improve on its own, or if it's accompanied by other symptoms like pain and fluid discharge, then you have to approach a otolaryngologist. Treatment for plugged ears is mainly aimed at opening up of the Eustachian tube with the help of medication like nasal spray antihistamines and topical steroids. In some severe cases, the doctor may use ventilation tubes to normalize ear pressure and drain fluids that accumulate in the tube.

In short, plugged ears is a condition that may not require any treatment and resolves on its own. You may try any of the above said remedies for relieving the condition. Seek medical attention, if the condition gets worse or is persistent.