Alleviate Discomfort From Clogged Ears in TX & LA
Why Are My Ears Clogged & How Do I Fix Them?
Many people deal with clogged ears at some point in their life. Sometimes, it feels like something inside your ear is blocking the canal, or you have cotton balls in them. As a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, you might find yourself looking for anything that might bring relief. Below, the hearing care professionals at Estes Audiology have included some helpful tips and home remedies to try when your ears are clogged. In addition, we’ve discussed the best ways to prevent clogged ears in the first place.
At Estes Audiology, we’re proud to provide industry-leading care at our hearing care centers throughout Texas and Louisiana. We provide comprehensive hearing evaluations and consultations with recommendations based on your specific hearing needs and lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment with one of our hearing care professionals.
Why Are My Ears Clogged?
Ear blockages can occur for various reasons. Knowing what caused your clogged ears is a helpful way to prevent them in the first place. Some of the most common causes of clogged ears include the following:
- Earwax buildup
- Middle ear infections
- Allergies
- Water or fluid stuck inside
- Debris or foreign obstruction is stuck inside
- Changes in altitude (when flying in an airplane)
- Sinus infections and other illnesses
- And more
How Do I Unblock My Ears?
Below, we’ve listed some of the most effective ways to unblock clogged ears. If you’re still dealing with symptoms of a clogged ear after trying some of these at-home remedies, you can schedule an appointment with our hearing care professionals, and we’ll take a look.
Using Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
This is the most common and effective way to clear an ear blockage. When choosing an over-the-counter ear drop, look for active ingredients like mineral oil, hydrogen peroxide, or glycerin. These can help soften wax so it can be more easily removed. You should always carefully follow the instructions on the bottle, and it’s also important to avoid using over-the-counter ear drops if you have a ruptured eardrum or ear infection.
Applying Warm Compresses
Applying a warm (not hot) compress can reduce inflammation and soften earwax so it’s easier to remove. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring out the excess water. Place the warm compress over the clogged ear for 10 to 15 minutes to help remove the blockage. You can repeat this several times per day.
Using Saline Solution
This is a simple and natural home remedy to try when your ear is clogged. You can create a saline solution by mixing one teaspoon of salt with warm water and stirring until completely dissolved. Use a clean dropper and put a few drops of the solution into your clogged ear while resting on your side. Relax in this position and wait a few minutes while the solution travels through your ear canal and softens the blockage. Tilt your head the opposite way to let the solution drain out.
Commercial Ear Unclogging Products
Several commercial ear-unclogging products are available, such as ear irrigation systems and earwax removal kits. These can be effective when used correctly, but following the instructions is important to avoid causing further injury or damage to your ears. Consult with a hearing care professional about your clogged ears when in doubt.
How to Prevent Future Ear Blockages
Some simple things you can do to prevent an ear blockage include the following:
- Avoid sticking anything inside your ear canal, such as cotton swabs, which can push earwax further inside.
- Wear proper hearing protection when in loud or noisy environments to protect your ears from damage.
- If possible, avoid exposing yourself to sudden or drastic changes in atmospheric pressure.
The Importance of Using Caution With Your Ears
It’s essential to always use caution with your ears when attempting to clear any blockages. Your ear is a sensitive part of your body. You should use a light touch when cleaning them and avoid putting your fingers inside. Only use a warm, wet cloth on the outside portion of your ear when cleaning it.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should never make yourself suffer through the discomfort of clogged ears when it can be treated by seeking help from a medical professional. They can help determine what caused the ear blockage, recommend treatment, and speed up your recovery time. Some clogged ears are caused by infections that can be treated with antibiotics. It’s important to contact a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness
- Ear pain
- A ringing sound
- Discharge
Contact the Team at Estes Audiology Today
When it comes to your hearing health, there’s no reason to settle for less than the highest quality care. Whether you’re dealing with the uncomfortable symptoms of clogged ears or need to schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation, the hearing care professionals at Estes Audiology are here to help. We’re committed to ensuring your experience with our team is comfortable and hassle-free from start to finish. We have years of experience providing industry-leading care in our network of hearing care centers throughout Texas and Louisiana. Our team is passionate about helping people hear the world around them more clearly. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive audiology services, or schedule an appointment for a one-on-one consultation.
