Blocked ears

While not always painful, ear blockages can be a nuisance and straining to hear is likely to have a negative effect on your daily life. Boots Hearingcare takes a look at some of the symptoms of ear blockage, how it’s caused and the most effective treatment options available.

Blocked ear symptoms
Blocked ear causes
Blocked ear treatment
When to see a doctor
FAQs

Blocked ear symptoms vary and depend entirely on the cause of the blockage,  and the individual. Common symptoms include:

• Earache or ear pain

• Muffled hearing

• Feeling of fullness in the ear

• Dizziness

• High pitched ringing or noises (tinnitus)

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There are several reasons why you may be experiencing an ear blockage. Identifying the root cause of the problem is essential in determining the best course of treatment. 

Ear infection (Otitis media)

As the middle ear is a sensitive area, an ear infection is often painful. This condition occurs when fluid gets trapped behind the eardrum, causing a blockage or feeling of fullness in the ear. 

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD)

Normally caused by allergies, colds or infections, Eustachian tube dysfunction is a relatively common condition that occurs when the Eustachian tubes, the small tubes that connect your upper throat to your ears, get ‘plugged’ or blocked. As well as a blocked ear and a feeling of fullness, other symptoms may include dulled hearing, ear pressure and crackling or popping sounds.

Earwax blockage

A buildup of earwax is a common cause of ear blockage. Generally, when earwax is produced, it is pushed towards the outer ear. If this wax builds up, it can harden and cause blockages, earaches or infections. 

Swimmer’s ear

For those suffering from swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, a clogged or full feeling is generally the first symptom. The condition usually occurs when there is an infection or inflammation brought on by water being trapped in the ear canal. 

Ear pressure

A rapid change or build up of pressure in the ear, caused by either sinus problems, blocked Eustachian tubes or high altitude, can cause your ear to feel clogged or blocked.

Treatment for a blocked ear depends entirely on the cause of the issue and the individual. In many cases, the symptoms will disappear on their own. However, if you do need treatment, the following will usually help:

• Over-the-counter medicines: from ear medication designed to reduce swelling and inflammation to nasal decongestants and cold and flu tablets. There is a range of medication available to help you alleviate symptoms. 

• At-home treatments: other treatments such as a warm compress or using steam can help to unclog your ears.

• Medical treatments: if your blockage is due to a buildup of wax, we offer ear wax removal services to help relieve discomfort and pain.

It’s important to remember that if you are suffering from a blocked ear, you should never use your finger, or insert objects such as cotton buds into the ear canal, as this can exacerbate the situation.

While some causes of ear blockage will resolve themselves on their own, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor, especially if the congestion lasts more than a couple of weeks.

Are you struggling with ear blockage? Book a hearing test with Boots Hearingcare today.