Why Do Your Ears Feel Blocked? Top Causes Explained

Experiencing a blocked sensation in the ears is a familiar issue everyone has likely overcome at some time and can cause discomfort when it occurs, as well as muffled hearing. Knowing the essential reasons behind it can be a guide towards restoring clarity and avoiding unwanted consequences. Let us understand why our ears feel blocked at times and which is the best ENT clinic in Hyderabad****** to get treated for this condition. 

Here are the reasons why your ears are getting blocked: 

1. Dysfunction of the Eustachian Tube

The most common reason for blocked ears is dysfunction of the Eustachian tube (ET). The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the nose and throat to help regulate pressure and drain fluid. This tube can become swollen or congested as a result of allergies, sinus infections, colds, or changes in altitude (like when you fly). A lot of individuals will have this sensation when they are travelling or during the seasonal changes, when allergies are more common.

2. Earwax Buildup

Earwax, or cerumen, is designed to play a protective role in your ear canal. However, earwax can build up and, when hardened, create a barrier by blocking sound and causing a clogged sensation. If a person tries to clean their ears using cotton swabs, it can push wax deep into the ear, causing more blockage. The symptoms of earwax include muffled hearing, mild pain, perhaps ringing in the ears, and sometimes dizziness.

3. Ear Infections

Infections occurring in either the outer or middle ear are a common reason for someone feeling blocked. An outer ear infection (commonly referred to as swimmer's ear) results in swelling of the ear and fluid, but a middle ear infection (otitis media) leads to pressure and pain and can affect hearing following a cold or sore throat. Either type of infection can also interfere with balance and require professional treatment if the condition lasts.

4. Changes in Altitude and Pressure 

Sudden changes in attitude when taking off in an airplane can block your ears. This occurs because pressure in the middle ear and the surrounding environment has become unbalanced. Fortunately, some simple manoeuvres, such as yawning, swallowing, or gently blowing with the nostrils pinched, will normalise ear pressure quickly.

Most of the time, blocked ears are mild and are reversible too. However, if you experience severe pain or continuous hearing loss, seek help from an expert ENT specialist. You can consult the expert doctors at Jade Clinics, the best ENT clinic in Gachibowli. They will diagnose why your ear has got blocked and will recommend an effective treatment accordingly. 

For more details, visit Jade Clinics now.