Clogged ears can be caused by excessive earwax, ear infection and swimmer's ear, which occurs when the ears become blocked because of water collection in the canal. Although clogged ears are seldom a sign of a serious medical condition, they can be a sign of ruptured ear drums. Clogged ears can also be the result of descending from high altitudes such as when flying in a plane. There are a variety of treatments for clogged ears, including effective home remedies.
Step 1
Breathe in and out. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests inhaling and the softly exhaling while holding your mouth and nostrils closed. They also warn against doing this exercise forcefully, because an ear infection can occur as a result of the reintroduction of bacteria into the ear canals.
Step 2
Try hydrogen peroxide. If excessive ear wax is causing your ears to clog, place a drop of hydrogen peroxide directly into your ears. Check with your doctor before beginning this treatment to make sure you will not worsen an existing condition.
Step 3
Chew gum. Changes in surrounding air pressure can cause your ears to clog. Chewing gum can relieve excess ear pressure and reduce pain.
Step 4
Attempt the Valsalva's maneuver. This technique opens the Eustachian tubes and provides relief from stuffy and clogged ears. To perform this maneuver, take a deep breath with your mouth closed. Then, gently blow your nose while pinching it shut. Avoid this technique if your have an infection, says University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 5
Start yawning. Even if you don't feel like it, yawn. Yawning can help unclog your ears by stimulating the muscles, equalizing pressure and opening your ears.
Tips and Warnings
- Swallow frequently. Repeated swallowing is a simple home remedy that can relieve ear pressure and unclog your ears. After hearing or feeling a mild pop, your ears will be cleared. Inhale steam. With a vaporizer or pan of boiling water, inhale steam through your nose. Your ears can become clogged as a result of sinusitis, and by relieving sinus congestion with steam, your ears will unclog.
- Never put objects in your ears in an attempt to unclog them. Doing so can result in damage to the ear canal or eardrum.
Things You'll Need
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Chewing gum
