Understanding Pressure in Ears: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief

The feeling of pressure in your ears is a common sensation that many people experience at some point. It can feel like your ears are clogged, blocked, or under water, sometimes accompanied by muffled hearing or discomfort. While this sensation is often temporary, persistent pressure in ears may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.

What Does Ear Pressure Feel Like?

Symptoms of pressure in ears can vary depending on the cause but often include:

• A feeling of fullness or blockage in one or both ears


• Muffled or reduced hearing


• Ear pain or discomfort


• Popping or crackling sensations

If ear pressure persists and does not improve with simple remedies like swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum, it may be a sign of an underlying condition.

Common Causes of Pressure in Ears

Several factors can contribute to the sensation of ear pressure. Here are some of the most frequent causes:

1. Earwax Buildup

Excess earwax can block the ear canal, leading to a sensation of fullness and pressure. This can also cause temporary hearing loss, which typically resolves once the earwax is removed by a professional.

2. Sinus Congestion and Infections

Colds, allergies, and sinus infections can lead to inflammation and mucus buildup, which affects the Eustachian tubes. These tubes connect the middle ear to the throat and help regulate ear pressure. When they become inflamed or blocked, you may experience ear pressure and muffled hearing.

3. Airplane Ear (Barotrauma)

Changes in altitude, such as during takeoff and landing on an airplane, can cause a pressure imbalance between the middle and external ear. This often leads to discomfort or a clogged sensation, which can usually be relieved by swallowing, yawning, or using specialized earplugs.

4. Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmers ear is inflammation or infection in the outer ear canal which can be caused by water trapped in the ear canal after swimming or bathing. Symptoms can include a feeling of fullness, pressure, and even mild pain. To remove water trapped in your ear, lean over so the affected ear is aimed at the ground and gently massage the cheek where it meets the front of the ear canal.

5. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

The Eustachian tubes help equalize pressure in the middle ear. When these tubes become blocked due to inflammation, allergies, or infections, you may experience persistent pressure in ears and discomfort.

6. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

The TMJ is located near the ears, and dysfunction in this joint can cause symptoms like ear pressure, pain, and even a clicking sound or sensation when chewing or speaking.

7. Meniere’s Disease

A disorder affecting the inner ear, Meniere’s disease can lead to pressure in ears, along with vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.

8. Anxiety and Stress

Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension and changes in blood circulation, which may cause sensations of ear pressure.

How to Relieve Pressure in Ears

Depending on the cause, there are several methods to alleviate ear pressure:

• Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum to help open the Eustachian tubes.


• Using a warm compress to reduce inflammation and promote drainage.


• Performing the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose, closing your mouth, and gently blowing) to equalize ear pressure.


• Taking decongestants or antihistamines to reduce nasal and sinus congestion.


• Using nasal saline sprays to keep nasal passages clear.


• Avoiding sudden altitude changes or using specialized earplugs when flying.


• Seeking professional earwax removal if buildup is the issue.

When to See a Doctor or Hearing Care Professional

If your ear pressure is persistent, accompanied by severe pain, dizziness, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears, it is important to consult a health care professional. These symptoms may indicate an infection or a more serious underlying condition.

Pressure in ears is often a temporary and harmless condition, but persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Understanding the causes and remedies for ear pressure can help you find relief and maintain good ear health. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention to rule out more serious conditions and receive appropriate treatment.