A blocked ear is a common problem that can make your hearing feel muffled or leave you with a feeling of pressure or fullness. It often happens after swimming, flying, having a cold or during allergy season. While blocked ears are usually temporary and settle on their own, they can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical treatment.
This guide explains the common causes of blocked ears, what you can safely try at home and when it's time to see a doctor.
Blocked ears can happen for a number of reasons. The most common causes include:
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, helps protect the ear canal by trapping dust and bacteria. Sometimes wax builds up faster than it can naturally clear, causing a blockage that can affect your hearing and create a sensation of fullness.
After swimming or showering, water can become trapped inside the ear canal. This often causes a blocked sensation and muffled hearing until the water drains away.
Viral infections can cause swelling and congestion around the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the nose. When these tubes become blocked, pressure builds up inside the ear.
Seasonal allergies can also cause inflammation of the Eustachian tubes, making your ears feel blocked or full.
Changes in air pressure during take-off, landing or scuba diving can temporarily block the ears until the pressure equalises.
Fluid trapped behind the eardrum during an ear infection can cause ear pain, pressure and temporary hearing loss. If you suspect an ear infection, it's important to seek medical advice rather than trying to treat it yourself.
Depending on the cause, symptoms may include:
The best treatment depends on what is causing the blockage in your ears.
If your ears became blocked during a flight, you can try:
If congestion is causing the blockage, these measures may help:
If allergies are contributing to your symptoms, your doctor or pharmacist may also recommend an antihistamine or a corticosteroid nasal spray.
If water is trapped in your ear:
If you think ear wax is causing the blockage:
Important: Do not put oil, water or ear drops into your ear if you have ear pain, discharge, grommets or think you may have a perforated eardrum.
Trying to remove a blockage yourself can sometimes make the problem worse.
Avoid:
These methods may damage the ear canal or eardrum and can increase your risk of infection.
Arrange a medical review if you have:
Your doctor can determine whether the cause is ear wax, an infection, Eustachian tube dysfunction or another condition that requires treatment.
Go to your nearest Emergency Department or call 000 if you develop:
Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency and should be assessed as soon as possible, as early treatment can improve the chances of recovery.
A blockage affecting one ear is often caused by ear wax, trapped water or pressure changes. Less commonly, it may be due to an infection or another condition that requires assessment.
Yes. Allergies can cause swelling around the Eustachian tubes, making your ears feel blocked or full.
Yes. Many cases improve naturally over a few hours or days, particularly if they are related to flying, swimming or a viral illness.
Light exercise is usually fine if you otherwise feel well. If you have an ear infection, significant dizziness or severe pain, it's best to avoid strenuous activity until you have recovered.
No. Ear candling is not supported by medical evidence and has been associated with burns, ear injuries and blockages caused by candle wax.
A telehealth consultation may be appropriate if you're experiencing blocked ears due to a recent cold, allergies or pressure changes, or if you're unsure whether your symptoms require further treatment.
During your consultation, a MediLeave doctor can discuss your symptoms, recommend appropriate treatment and determine whether you require an in-person examination.
Depending on your assessment, a MediLeave doctor may be able to provide:
Please note that blocked ears cannot always be fully assessed by telehealth. If your doctor suspects ear wax build-up, an ear infection or another condition requiring physical examination, you may be advised to attend a GP clinic for an ear examination.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement that MediLeave offers all of the treatments or preventative options discussed herein. This article is not intended to replace the advice of your physician or other qualified health care professional. You should always consult your doctor or other qualified health care professional if you have questions about your specific health situation or condition. In case of emergency, immediately dial 000. Any discussion of medical issues is for informational purposes only and should not be considered an offering of MediLeave. Telehealth services may not be appropriate nor available for all conditions, symptoms or circumstances.
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Call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department.
