Clogged ears are a very common problem, affecting thousands of grownups and children, around the world. Although this problem is usually not a major cause for concern, it could lead to a lot of discomfort, as well as pain. This is probably why most people who suffer from this condition consult health care providers for treatment options or home remedies for clogged ears. However, before adopting any form of treatment for clogged ears, it is absolutely essential to identify the factors that led to the condition. This is because the treatment or remedies recommended by a doctor may vary, based on the causes of clogged ears.
Causes
There could be several factors that could cause a person to suffer from clogged ears and its symptoms. Given below, are some of the most common causes of clogged ears:
- Accumulation of wax within the ear
- Allergies
- Buildup of fluid inside the ear, especially after a shower or a swim
- Cold or fever
- Sinus pressure
- Tension in the jaw area
- Viral or bacterial infections
Many people experience a clogged or a blocked ear when they are traveling by flight, especially during take off and landing. This occurs due to the difference in pressure, which develops between the air that is present in the middle ear and the air outside the ear. However, in such instances, the clogged ears is a temporary condition, which usually gets resolved within a few minutes, either on its own, or through simple acts like swallowing and yawning.
Symptoms
There are quite a few uncomfortable signs and symptoms that are usually experienced by those who have clogged ears. Given below are some of the most commonly seen clogged ears symptoms:
- A condition called tinnitus that is characterized by a ringing sound in the ears
- Bleeding in the ear
- Discharge from the ear
- Dizziness or loss in balance
- Intense pain in the ears
- Loss of hearing abilities
Some of these symptoms are quite serious and therefore should receive immediate medical attention. Therefore, it is important for people to consult a doctor without any delay, in case they notice any bleeding, discharge or feel dizzy.
How to cure ?
It is best to consult a doctor for all instances of clogged ears, to first identify what the possible causes could be. In case the pain is unbearable, or if the infection is quite severe, the doctor may directly recommend medical treatment for clogged ears. This medical treatment to cure clogged ears could include antibiotics, steroids, eardrops and pain relievers. However, in case of a milder problem, home remedies can be used for relieving the pain and discomfort. Given below are some of the other home remedies for clogged ears and pressure:
- Pour a few drops of garlic juice, garlic oil, or garlic extract into the ear that is blocked. This is very effective in case of bacterial infections, as garlic contains antibacterial properties.
- In case of a fluid buildup, using a blow dryer on the ear should help dry up the excess water from the ear.
- In case of excess wax in the ear, hydrogen peroxide is the most effective way of getting instant relief.
Since the most common cause for clogged ears is the buildup of earwax, there are many people who try to remove wax with the help of an ear bud. However, such remedies only push the earwax deeper into the ear canal and can also be quite harmful. Fortunately, there are many home remedies for clogged ears by ear wax, such as mineral oil, glycerin or warm water. However, it is best to consult an ear specialist, for methods in which the wax can be removed.
answered by M W