Ear Congestion

Congestion

Ear congestion is a condition characterized by a feeling of fullness in the ear that impairs normal hearing. It occurs when the ear canal closes, and the Eustachian tube fails to equalize air pressure on both sides of the eardrum. Although it is usually temporary, a physician should be consulted if the condition persists without improvement, if there is ear discharge, or if severe pain develops.

Causes of Ear Congestion

The causes of ear congestion include: Barotrauma (pressure changes in the middle ear); Cleaning the ear with cotton swabs; Earwax buildup; Infections; Eustachian tube dysfunction; Sinusitis; Allergies; Foreign objects in the ear; Middle ear cysts; Water trapped in the ear.

Symptoms of Ear Congestion

The primary symptoms of ear congestion are: A sensation of fullness or blockage in the ears; Mild hearing loss Pain (rarely); Dizziness.

If the blockage persists for an extended period, hearing loss may worsen, and pain may intensify.

Treatment of Ear Congestion

Mild cases of ear congestion can often be resolved by the individual. Simple yet effective actions include chewing gum, yawning, or performing the Valsalva Maneuver (inhaling, then trying to exhale with the nostrils and mouth closed). Earwax softening drops may be used for blockages caused by earwax. For blockages resulting from water trapped in the external auditory canal, tilting the head to the side and moving the auricle can help.

If the blockage cannot be resolved independently, persists for a prolonged period, or is associated with an infection, the treatment prescribed by a physician should be followed.

In cases where the Eustachian tube cannot be opened through maneuvers, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve inserting a tube into the ear, surgically removing fluid, or, in some cases, making an incision in the eardrum.  Blockages caused by allergies can be treated with antihistamines or steroids.