Is pressure building in your ears?

If you have gum at the ready whenever you board an airplane, you’re likely familiar with the uncomfortable sensation that can accompany elevation changes: ear popping.

The eustachian tube that connects your middle ear to your throat regulates pressure in your ear by opening and closing, allowing air to flow in and out of your ear. When the tube is closed, pressure can build up and cause discomfort, pain or hearing problems.

“People who have chronic sinus issues and seasonal allergies are most at risk for pressure buildup, along with people born with atypical ear anatomy, such as narrow ear canals,” says MaKensie Quinn, an otolaryngology physician assistant at Aurora Health Care.

Common reasons your ears are popping, according to Quinn:

• Sinus infection. Drainage from the sinuses can block the eustachian tube and interfere with your ear’s ability to repressurize itself.
• Ear wax. Wax builds up in the external ear canal which can cause muffled hearing and a sensation of fullness. This usually resolves once wax is removed.
• Altitude changes. This causes increased pressure on your ears and is one reason why airplanes pressurize the cabin when flying. If they didn’t do this, your eardrums would burst every time you fly.
• Scuba diving. Air is sent to the middle ear to help adjust to underwater pressure.

Quinn also says hearing loss, TMJ and migraine disorders are a few conditions where you may experience a sensation of false pressure buildup.

To relieve pressure in your ears, try:

• Swallowing, yawning or chewing gum.
• Pinching your nose and gently blowing.
• Using a nasal spray or decongestant if the pressure buildup is caused by sinus infection.
• Applying a warm compress to loosen mucus and fluid that can clog the eustachian tube.

“You should seek treatment if you have pressure that lasts for more than 3 months,” says Quinn. “Sometimes it can take that long for pressure to resolve on its own, especially if it’s related to a recent illness or allergies.”

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