How To Pop and Unclog Your Ears

When your ears feel clogged, or you can’t quite hear as well as you normally do, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable. But don’t worry! I will tell you the proven safe and effective ways to pop and unclog your ears. But first, a warning: it’s essential to use gentle techniques to avoid damaging your ears.

Why Do Ears Get Clogged?

Before we dive into how to unclog your ears, let’s briefly discuss why this might happen in the first place.

1. Earwax buildup: Your ears naturally produce earwax to protect and lubricate the ear canal. Sometimes, the wax can accumulate and block the canal, leading to a clogged sensation.
2. Sinus infections or allergies: Swelling from sinus infections or allergies can cause your Eustachian tubes (small tubes that connect your middle ear to the back of your throat) to become blocked. This can create a feeling of fullness or pressure in your ears.
3. Changes in air pressure: Rapid changes in altitude, like during air travel or driving up a mountain, can cause the air pressure in your middle ear to be different from the air pressure outside, resulting in a clogged or popping sensation.
4. Ear infections: If you have an infection in your middle ear, it can cause fluid to build up and block the Eustachian tubes.

Safe Techniques to Pop Your Ears

When you’re dealing with a clogged ear, it’s essential to use safe and gentle methods to pop them. Here are some techniques you can try:

The Valsalva Maneuver

One of the most popular techniques to pop and unclog your ears is called the Valsalva maneuver. This method is simple and can be done almost anywhere.

1. Close your mouth and pinch your nostrils shut with your fingers.
2. Gently blow air through your nose as if you’re trying to blow your nose.
3. You should feel a slight pressure change in your ears, followed by a popping sensation.

Warning: Do not blow too hard, as it can cause damage to your eardrums. The Valsalva maneuver can help equalize the pressure in your ears, making it a great option for those experiencing clogged ears due to altitude changes or sinus congestion.

The Toynbee Maneuver

Another method to try is the Toynbee maneuver. It’s similar to the Valsalva maneuver but involves swallowing instead of blowing.

1. Pinch your nostrils shut with your fingers.
2. Close your mouth and try to swallow.

The act of swallowing will help increase the pressure in your ears and can often result in a popping sensation, unclogging your ears.

Chewing Gum or Sucking on Hard Candy

Interestingly, chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on hard candy may help relieve the pressure in your ears. The act of chewing or sucking stimulates the muscles in your jaw and throat, which can help open up the Eustachian tubes and balance the pressure in your ears. This technique is especially helpful during airplane takeoffs and landings when pressure changes are more rapid.

Yawning

Yawning is another simple and natural way to help pop and unclog your ears. When you yawn, the muscles around your Eustachian tubes contract, which can help open up the tubes and balance the pressure in your ears. To use yawning as a method to pop your ears, simply try to induce a fake yawn. Open your mouth wide and take a deep breath in. You should feel a slight pressure change in your ears, followed by a popping sensation.

How to Unclog Ears Safely

If your ears are clogged due to earwax buildup, it’s essential to unclog them safely. Here are some methods to try:

Earwax Drops

Over-the-counter earwax drops can help soften and break down the wax, making it easier to remove. Follow the instructions on the packaging, and avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push the wax further into the ear canal.

Warm Compress

Applying a warm compress to your affected ear can help to soften the wax and relieve discomfort. Soak a washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and hold it against your ear for a few minutes. Be sure not to make the water too hot to avoid burning your skin.

When to See a Doctor

While most cases of clogged ears can be relieved with the methods mentioned above, sometimes the issue can be more persistent or even a sign of an underlying condition. You should consider seeing a doctor if:

1. Your ears remain clogged for an extended period.
2. You experience severe pain or discomfort.
3. You have symptoms such as fever, dizziness, or drainage from the ear.

In these cases, it’s essential to consult a medical professional who can help diagnose and treat any underlying issues that may be causing your ears to feel clogged.

The Bottom Line

Experiencing clogged or uncomfortable ears can be frustrating, but there are several safe and effective methods to help alleviate the issue. Techniques like the Valsalva maneuver, Toynbee maneuver, and yawning can aid in balancing ear pressure and popping your ears. For earwax-related clogs, using over-the-counter earwax drops and warm compresses can provide relief. Always be gentle with your ears and consult a healthcare professional if the problem persists or worsens.