How to unblock your ears: Causes and best treatments for blocked ears

Blocked ears cause frustration and discomfort and can also impact hearing. While it can be a common problem, it is important to pinpoint the cause of your blocked ear.

Symptoms of blocked ears include pressure, muffled sounds, a feeling of fullness and in some cases discomfort or pain.

If you are experiencing blocked ears it could be due to ear wax build up, ear infections, eustachian tube dysfunction or because of small foreign objects like earplugs or hearing aids. 

Here are the most common causes and treatments for blocked ears:

Ear wax build up: Ear wax, or cerumen, is a naturally produced protectant and the ear canal has a self cleaning mechanism. But in some cases ear wax can build up and cause blockages. 

It is important not to attempt to remove the wax yourself; using cotton tips or other foreign objects can push the wax further into the ear canal, irritate the skin or even damage the ear drum. 

Cerumen microsuction, which we provide at Clear Ears Perth, is considered the gold standard for ear wax removal. If you are concerned about ear wax impaction, book an appointment with one of our audiologists who can provide quick relief using our gentle, specialised equipment.

Fluid build up: In some cases, impacted ear wax might not be the cause of fullness and pressure in the ear. Blockages could also be caused by excess fluid from common ear infections in the middle and outer ears. 

Middle ear infection: Otitis media, or middle ear effusion, is caused by bacteria or viruses and leads to fluid build up behind the eardrum. This middle ear infection is common in children and often occurs after a cold. It can be accompanied by ear pain and a feeling of blocked ears. The fluid usually clears by itself but when it doesn’t, a condition known as “glue ear” can occur.

Swimmer’s ear: This outer ear bacterial infection is prevalent in the summer months, when more people are frequenting pools and beaches. Also known as otitis externa, this inflammation occurs when water gets trapped behind ear wax, resulting in a warm and moist environment which allows bacteria to thrive. Swimmer’s ear can lead to pain, redness, pressure and a feeling of fullness. Infections are diagnosed by a GP and are often treated with medicated drops.

Eustachian Tube dysfunction:

Eustachian Tube dysfunction occurs when the lining of the tube is swollen or blocked by a build up of mucus or fluid. Due to insufficient air reaching the middle ear, a feeling of fullness or muffled sounds can result. It is caused by allergies, colds, infections or changes in altitude and symptoms usually resolve on their own. If not, doctors may recommend decongestants or nasal sprays. 

Foreign objects: 

People who wear hearing aids, or who frequently use earbuds or ear plugs, can be more prone to blocked ears. This is because in-ear devices can push wax further into the canal, causing the ears to become blocked.

The good news is, this wax build up can be removed safely and easily with ear wax microsuction.