How To Treat A Clogged Ear

Drink Water Or Chew Gum

Clogged ears often occur during an airplane flight or while visiting high-altitude areas. In these cases, opting to drink water or chew gum can be effective. Drinking and chewing typically increase swallowing, and more frequent swallowing can help to naturally 'pop' the ears and equalize pressure, relieving muffled hearing and pain. When drinking water for ear relief, some patients find taking small, more frequent sips of water provides more relief than taking fewer, larger sips.

Hard candies, mints, gummy bears, or fruit roll-ups will all work if gum is not available. Even just mimicking the swallowing or chewing mechanism without liquid or food may be effective for some individuals. In addition, wearing earplugs designed for plane travel could minimize the discomfort and ear stuffiness associated with travel, and the earplugs might make swallowing more comfortable during the flight.

Treat Underlying Ear Infection

Sometimes, a clogged ear could indicate an infection that requires treatment. To evaluate a clogged ear, the doctor will look into the ear with an otoscope, and they will assess whether there is swelling, fluid, or redness in the ear canal or on the eardrum. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an underlying ear infection due to bacteria, and pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be taken with antibiotics to keep the patient comfortable.

Some individuals find placing a heating pad or a warm compress on the affected ear is soothing. If a patient has repeated ear infections, they may need to have a procedure known as a myringotomy. This involves the surgical placement of a tube inside the ear so fluid can drain more easily. Since ear infections can lead to hearing loss, it is important for patients experiencing clogged ears to be evaluated by a medical professional to determine the underlying cause.