Hi, I'm Dr. Emily, a board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor). I understand it can be frustrating when your ears won't pop. This is a common issue, especially when you're traveling by air or experiencing changes in altitude. Let me explain what's happening and how to address it.

Understanding Ear Popping

Your ears are designed to maintain a balance of pressure between the outside world and the middle ear, a small air-filled space behind your eardrum. This balance is essential for proper hearing.

When you're at a higher altitude, the air pressure outside your ears is lower than inside. This pressure difference causes the eardrum to bulge outward, leading to a feeling of fullness, pain, and sometimes a muffled hearing sensation.

Your body has a natural mechanism to equalize this pressure called the Eustachian tube. This tiny tube connects the middle ear to the back of your throat. Normally, the Eustachian tube opens briefly during swallowing or yawning, allowing air to flow into the middle ear and equalize the pressure.

However, sometimes the Eustachian tube can become blocked, preventing air from entering the middle ear. This blockage can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

* Changes in altitude: The sudden pressure changes during air travel or even driving up a mountain can cause the Eustachian tube to close.
* Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation and swelling in the lining of the Eustachian tube, making it difficult for it to open.
* Colds or sinus infections: These infections can also cause inflammation and swelling in the Eustachian tube.
* Earwax: A build-up of earwax can block the opening of the Eustachian tube.
* Structural abnormalities: In some cases, the Eustachian tube may be abnormally shaped or positioned, making it more susceptible to blockage.

Tips to Help Your Ears Pop

If your ears won't pop, here are some things you can try:

* Yawning and swallowing: These actions can help open the Eustachian tube. Try yawning widely or swallowing repeatedly.
* Chewing gum: Chewing gum can also help open the Eustachian tube.
* Valsalva maneuver: This technique involves gently blowing your nose while holding your nostrils closed. However, this method should be used cautiously, as it can increase the pressure in your ears and potentially cause damage.
* Ear plugs: If you're traveling by air, using earplugs can help reduce the pressure changes that can cause ear popping.
* Nasal sprays: Over-the-counter nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tube. However, it's important to use these sprays cautiously and for short periods, as overuse can lead to rebound congestion.

When to See a Doctor

If your ears won't pop and you experience any of the following symptoms, it's important to see a doctor:

* Severe ear pain
* Hearing loss
* Discharge from the ear
* Fever

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as an ear infection.

Prevention

You can take steps to prevent ear popping by:

* Staying hydrated: Dehydration can make it harder for the Eustachian tube to open.
* **Avoiding air travel during a cold or sinus infection**: This can help reduce the risk of ear pain and pressure.
* Using a nasal spray before air travel: This can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tube.

Conclusion

Ear popping is a common issue that can be addressed with simple remedies. However, if you experience severe symptoms or your ears continue to feel blocked, it's important to seek medical attention.

I hope this information has been helpful. Remember, it's always best to consult with your doctor or an otolaryngologist for personalized advice and treatment.

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As you feel the pressure beginning to build do the following:Hold your nose, close your mouth.Turn your head to the right until your chin touches your shoulder.Swallow hard until your left ear pops.Turn your head to the left until your chin touches your shoulder.Swallow hard until your right ear pops.More items...read more >>