The ear is an intricate part of the body that contains a structure called the Eustachian tube, which is responsible for maintaining correct pressure balance in the ear. Infections or ear blockages can disrupt the normal functioning of the Eustachian tube and other ear structures and cause a feeling of fullness and pressure in the ear.
Otitis Externa
Otitis externa, also referred to as Swimmer's Ear, is an ear infection that affects the outer ear and the ear canal. The bacteria and fungi that cause otitis externa thrive in warm, moist areas so those that are constantly exposed to water are at an increased risk of developing the infection. Other risk factors include cleaning out the ears, injury to the ear canal and other skin conditions. Symptoms of otitis externa include pain in the outer portion of the ear, itching, feeling of pressure in the affected ear, fluid drainage and decreased hearing. Initial treatment for otitis externa consists of removing any fluid or pus that has accumulated in the ear. Once the ear canal is clear, medicated ear drops can be placed into the ear to fight the infection and reduce the severity of symptoms. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that it takes an average of three days for symptoms to go away.
Ear Wax Blockage
Ear wax, or cerumen, is a substance that forms normally in the ear in order to prevent harmful substances, such as bacteria, from entering the ear canal and causing infection. An ear wax blockage occurs when the ear produces excess ear wax, which accumulates in the ear canal and causes an obstruction. Wax can also block the ear canal when it is pushed deep into the opening due to ear cleaning, according to Medline Plus. Symptoms of an ear wax blockage include a feeling of pressure in the ears, ear ache, ringing or clicking in the ear and hearing loss. Most cases of ear wax blockage can be treated at home with a process called irrigation, in which water is used to displace the blockage and remove the ear wax. If this is ineffective, a physician may need to perform the irrigation or use a suction method to remove the ear wax.
Ear Barotrauma
Ear barotrauma, also referred to as airplane ear, is a condition that occurs when the pressure in the middle ear differs from the pressure in the outside environment. Normally, the Eustachian tube opens and closes to maintain pressure balance in the ear. In cases where pressure changes quickly, such as ascending in an airplane, the Eustachian tube does not function properly and causes the pressure in the middle ear to be greater than the pressure in the environment. This can cause a feeling of pressure in the ears as well as pain, decreased hearing and ringing sensations. In order to relieve the pressure in the ear, the Eustachian tube must be stimulated to open, according to MayoClinic.com. This can be done by yawning or blowing out while holding the nose closed. If these methods are ineffective, medications can be used to repair Eustachian tube function.
