Understanding the Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
A blocked or crackling ear can be frustrating and uncomfortable, causing pain, muffled hearing, and even tinnitus. While these symptoms are often temporary, they can interfere with your daily activities. Understanding why a blocked and crackling ear occurs, the common symptoms to watch for, and how to address the issue can help you find relief. At The Ear Nurses, we are experts in examining ear problems to help educate you and restore your ear health.
Why Do Blocked and Crackling Ears Happen?
Blocked and crackling causes include:
- Ear Wax Buildup – Excess earwax can block the ear canal and create a crackling sound, often caused by the distorted movement of air through the ear canal.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction – The Eustachian tube regulates pressure in the middle ear. When your middle ear becomes blocked due to allergies, colds/viruses or even pet fur, you can experience crackling sounds, and a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the ear.
- Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media) – Fluid buildup and inflammation in the middle ear can cause crackling, popping or even “watery”sounds, often accompanied by discomfort or a feeling of fullness.
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorder – Jaw-related issues can affect the area around the ear, causing crackling or popping sounds when chewing or moving the jaw.
- Barotrauma – Pressure changes due to altitude, like during air travel or scuba diving, can cause a blocked or crackling sensation in the ear.
- Swimmer’s Ear (Outer Ear Infection) – Water trapped in the ear canal can lead to irritation and a crackling or sound as debris moves around.
Symptoms of Blocked and Crackling Ears
When experiencing blocked or crackling ears, you might notice symptoms such as:
- A crackling, popping, or clicking sound in the ear
- Sensation of water in the ear
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Partial or total hearing loss
- Pain or discomfort in the ear
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- Feeling like fluid draining down your throat
- Difficulty with ear pressure, especially during flights
How to Fix Blocked and Crackling Ears
There are several effective treatments for blocked and crackling ears, depending on the underlying cause:
At-Home Treatments for Blocked and Crackling Ears
- Ear Drops – Over-the-counter ear drops can help soften earwax in the outer ear, making it easier to clear the ear and possibly relieve the crackling sound.
- Warm Compress – A warm compress to the outside of the ear can help reduce discomfort
- Steam Inhalation – Inhaling steam can help relieve congestion in the sinuses and deeper part of the ear.
- Yawning or Swallowing – If the crackling is related to pressure build-up in the middle ear (e.g. from a cold or air travel) yawning or swallowing can help equalise the pressures and alleviate the sensations.
- Hydration – Staying hydrated can helps thin out any mucous, making it easier to expel from the nose and mouth.
- Saline nasal sprays – can help clear sinus or allergic congestion in the nasopharynx by flushing out debris and mucous from the Eustachian tube and middle ear, thereby reducing crackling sounds.
The Ear Nurses: Expert Care for Blocked and Crackling Ears
At The Ear Nurses, experts in treating and managing blocked and crackling ears. Our professional ear care include:
- EarWax Removal – We offer gentle microsuction procedures to remove earwax buildup, clear blockages, and eliminate crackling sounds.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treatment – Our experts assess the cause of Eustachian tube dysfunction and recommend treatments to restore normal ear pressure and function.
- Infection Identification and Treatment – Assess middle ear blockages and provide guidance on relieving pressure in the middle ear.
- TMJ Evaluation – If jaw issues are causing ear symptoms, we may recommend you see another specialist for further assessment.
- Barotrauma Management – For those affected by pressure changes while flying, we offer advice and guidance to help reduce the symptoms of barotrauma.
Don’t let a blocked or crackling ear disrupt your daily life. Trust the experts at The Ear Nurses to educated and examine your ear concerns with the care and attention you deserve.
📞 Call us today or Book Online to schedule your Ear Check!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why does my ear make a crackling sound?
A: A crackling sound in the ear is often caused by Eustachian tube dysfunction, earwax buildup, or an ear infection. Therefore, if the sound persists, it’s best to consult the Ear Nurses.
Q: Can I fix a blocked ear at home?
A:Mild cases of blocked ears can be treated by using ear drops or nasal sprays, it’s important to seek professional care if symptoms persist or worsen.
Q: Is it normal to experience crackling in my ear after a flight?
Yes, changes in air pressure during flight can create a temporary crackling sensation in the ear. Yawning, swallowing, or gently pinching your nose and swallowing can help relieve this sensation.
Don’t let ear Blocked and Crackling Ears affect your ear health well-being.
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Learn more about common ear issues at Healthdirect,