Blocked Ear: Causes and What You Can Do About It

A blocked ear can be incredibly annoying. Sounds become muffled, it can feel as though there is cotton wool stuffed in your ear, and sometimes it even comes with earache or mild dizziness. So how do you actually end up with a blocked ear? And what can you do to clear it up as quickly as possible? In this article, we explain the most common causes of a blocked ear. You will also learn when it is wise to take action and seek professional help.

A blocked ear caused by earwax

The most common cause of a blocked ear is a build-up of earwax. Earwax is a natural substance that protects the ear against dirt, dust and bacteria. Normally, the earwax works its way out of the ear on its own.

Sometimes, however, this process does not go smoothly. Earwax can build up and harden, partially or completely blocking the ear canal. This can lead to:

• Reduced hearing or a dull, muffled sound.

• A full or pressured feeling.

• A ringing sound or an echo.

• Mild earache.

Using cotton swabs often makes the problem worse. Instead of cleaning the ear, they actually push the earwax deeper into the ear canal.

When you have a blocked ear caused by earwax, it is important to deal with it safely. At Audinc, you can have your earwax removed removed responsibly by us, without any risk of damaging your ear.

Water in the ear

Water in the ear is a common cause of a temporary blocked ear, especially after swimming or showering. When there is already some earwax in the ear canal, water can become trapped behind it.

This can cause:

• A sudden feeling of blockage.

• Temporary hearing loss.

• The sensation that the ear is “closed off”.

The water often drains away on its own. If the ear stays blocked, however, it may be a combination of water in the ear and earwax, which can mean professional cleaning is needed.

A blocked ear during a cold

A blocked ear from a cold is a frequent occurrence. With a cold, the flu or a sinus infection, the Eustachian tube (the connection between the throat and the middle ear) can become blocked by mucus or swelling.

This creates pressure in the ear, which can lead to:

• A feeling of blockage.

• Popping or crackling sounds.

• Sometimes mild earache.

A blocked ear after a cold is often temporary. If the feeling persists for longer, it is wise to have the cause investigated further. You can easily make an appointment with Audinc for a check-up and advice.

How earplugs can cause a blocked ear

Wearing earplugs or hearing protection regularly can contribute to a blocked ear. Earplugs can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, causing it to build up more quickly.

This happens especially with:

• Music or sleeping earplugs.

• Prolonged or daily use.

A periodic ear check-up helps to prevent complaints and a blocked ear caused by earwax.

Earache as a result of a blocked ear

A blocked ear can sometimes come with earache. This earache usually develops because of pressure in the ear canal or the middle ear, for example due to earwax, water or a cold.

It is important to know that earache is not the cause but often a consequence of a blocked ear. If the pain persists or gets worse, it is wise to have your ear checked professionally.

What can you do about a blocked ear?

It is important to be careful when you are dealing with a blocked ear. So pay close attention to the following points:

• Do not use cotton swabs.

• Do not stubbornly try to remove earwax yourself.

• Be cautious with products designed to dissolve earwax.

Does the blocked feeling last longer than a few days, are you clearly hearing less, or are you experiencing earache, dizziness or ringing? Then it is wise to seek professional help.

Audinc is happy to help you with a safe and effective check-up, and can even remove earwax so that your hearing functions optimally again. Make an appointment straight away and have your ears checked professionally.