Why Does My Ear Feel Clogged? Top 11 Causes and Expert Solutions

Why does my ear feel clogged out of nowhere? Some people feel like their ear is stuffed with cotton, while others might struggle to hear clearly. If my ear has been clogged for a month or your ear feels blocked, you’re not alone.

A clogged ear can happen for many reasons. Sometimes, it’s something simple like pressure changes during a flight. Other times, it might be more serious, like an infection or sinus issue. This guide will walk you through 11 common reasons why your ear feels clogged, but no wax is present, and share tips on how to clear blocked ears.

Let’s get to the root of the problem and help you find relief!

If your ear feels clogged or it’s been blocked for a long time, it’s best to see an ENT specialist. They can find the cause and help you feel better. Don’t wait—get the right care today!

Top 11 Reasons Your Ear Feels Clogged

1. Earwax Build-Up

Earwax protects your ear canal, but too much can cause blockages. When earwax accumulates, it can trap dirt and debris, creating a sensation of fullness.

• Symptoms: Muffled hearing, discomfort, and sometimes dizziness.
• When to Seek Help: If you experience pain or reduced hearing, visit a professional.

How to Clear Blocked Ears: Avoid inserting cotton buds, as they can push wax further in. Instead, consult experts like those at ENT LDN, who provide safe ear-cleaning services.

2. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)

The eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. When they don’t open or close properly, pressure builds up, leading to a clogged feeling.

• Common Triggers: Allergies, colds, sinus infections, or air travel.
• Symptoms: A feeling of fullness, reduced hearing, or popping sounds in the ear.

ETD can be relieved with decongestants, antihistamines, or prescribed treatments. At ENT LDN, advanced diagnostic tools are available to assess and treat ETD effectively.

Read the Complete guide for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)

3. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)

Middle ear infections occur when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, often due to bacteria or viruses.

• Symptoms: Ear pain, muffled hearing, fever, and sometimes discharge.
• Who is Affected: It is more common in children but can also occur in adults.

Prompt treatment, such as antibiotics or other medical interventions, can prevent complications. If you suspect an infection, seek professional care.

4. Sinus Congestion or Cold

A cold or sinus congestion often leads to a clogged ear sensation. Swollen nasal passages block the Eustachian tubes, causing pressure in the ears.

• Symptoms: Fullness in the ears, difficulty hearing, and sometimes discomfort.
• How to Clear Blocked Ears: Steam inhalation, saline nasal sprays, and staying hydrated can relieve congestion.

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult specialists at ENT LDN for tailored care.

5. Hearing Loss (Age-Related or Sudden)

Whether gradual or sudden, hearing loss can sometimes create a sensation of fullness or blockage.

• Age-Related Loss: Natural degeneration of hearing due to ageing.
• Sudden Loss: This can be caused by infections, injuries, or other medical conditions.

If your ear feels clogged, but no wax is present, it’s important to have your hearing assessed by an ENT professional. Early diagnosis can help preserve hearing.

6. Barotrauma (Pressure Changes)

Flying, scuba diving, or travelling to high altitudes can lead to barotrauma, where pressure changes cause ear discomfort.

• Symptoms: Popping sounds, pain, or a feeling of blockage.
• Prevention: Chewing gum, swallowing, or using specialised earplugs during travel.

If the sensation persists, seek medical advice, as barotrauma can sometimes cause more serious issues.

7. Acoustic Neuroma or Tumors

Rarely, a clogged ear feeling might be caused by a benign tumour, such as an acoustic neuroma. This growth can press on nerves in the ear, leading to symptoms.

• Symptoms: Hearing loss, ringing in the ear, and balance issues.
• When to Seek Help: Persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated immediately.

Specialists at ENT LDN use advanced imaging techniques to detect and treat such conditions effectively.

8. Foreign Object in the Ear

Sometimes, an object like a bead, insect, or piece of cotton can block the ear canal, especially in children.

• Symptoms: Pain, reduced hearing, or a sense of fullness.
• What to Do: Avoid attempting removal yourself, as this can push the object further in.

Visit a professional clinic like ENT LDN for safe removal using specialised equipment.

9. Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ear)

Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear, is often accompanied by a sensation of blockage.

• Causes: Exposure to loud noise, stress, or underlying ear conditions.
• Management: Sound therapy, stress reduction, and ENT evaluations can help reduce symptoms.

If your ear feels clogged but no wax is found, tinnitus may be the cause. A professional consultation can provide clarity and relief.

10. TMJ Disorders (Jaw Issues)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, and its dysfunction can affect the ears.

• Symptoms: Pain in the jaw, headaches, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Treatment: Physical therapy, jaw exercises, or dental appliances can help.

At ENT LDN, experienced professionals can assess whether TMJ issues are causing your ear discomfort.

Chronic Symptoms: My Ear Has Been Clogged for a Month

If your ear has been clogged for a month or longer, seeking medical attention is crucial. Prolonged symptoms may indicate an underlying issue, such as:

• Persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction.
• Chronic ear infections.
• More serious conditions like hearing loss or tumours.

Ignoring symptoms can lead to complications, so it’s always best to consult a trusted ENT clinic like ENT LDN for a thorough evaluation and personalised treatment plan.

Solutions for Blocked Ears

If you’re searching for blocked ear treatment, here’s what you can do:

• For Wax Buildup: Use over-the-counter ear drops to soften the wax. Avoid using cotton buds. If symptoms persist, visit a doctor for professional cleaning.
• For ETD or Sinus Congestion: Stay hydrated, try steam inhalation, or use saline nasal sprays. Over-the-counter decongestants may also help relieve pressure.
• For Barotrauma: Yawn, swallow or try the Valsalva manoeuvre (gently blowing while pinching your nose) to equalise pressure.

For unresolved issues, consult ENT specialists for personalised care.

When Your Ear Feels Clogged But No Wax: What to Do?

If your ear feels clogged but no wax is visible, the issue may stem from deeper causes like Eustachian tube dysfunction, allergies, or hearing loss. In such cases, home remedies may not be enough.

A specialist should evaluate persistent symptoms to rule out barotrauma or middle ear infections. Clinics like ENT LDN offer advanced diagnostic tools and expert care to effectively pinpoint and treat the root cause.

Blocked Ear Treatment: When to See a Specialist

If you experience red flags like hearing loss, severe pain, dizziness, or symptoms lasting over a month, seek immediate professional help. Prolonged issues can indicate underlying problems like chronic infections or structural abnormalities.

At ENT LDN, expert clinicians provide comprehensive blocked ear treatment using advanced diagnostics, on-site imaging, and hearing assessments. Visit ENT LDN’s services page to learn more about tailored solutions for your ear health.

Conclusion

If your ear feels clogged, it’s important to know the reason. This helps you find the right treatment and avoid bigger problems.

• Wax buildup, sinus issues, or other conditions can cause this.
• Treating it early gives better results.

If it doesn’t get better or feels worse, see a doctor. At ENT London, our specialists can find the problem and fix it. We use the best tools to help you feel better. 

Don’t let ear discomfort disrupt your daily life—schedule an appointment with our specialists today!

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