What is “Ear Popping?”

If you’ve ever flown in an airplane or hiked up a steep mountain, you’ve probably experienced the sensation of ear popping. While often harmless, it can be annoying—or even painful—especially when it lingers or causes a clogging sensation that just won’t go away.

So what’s really going on when your ears pop? And what can you do about it if it becomes chronic or uncomfortable? Let’s take a look at what causes ear popping, how it’s connected to your ear anatomy, and the safest ways to relieve the pressure.

What Is Ear Popping?

Your ears are made up of three main parts:

• Outer ear: The visible part and the beginning of the ear canal.
• Middle ear: Contains the eardrum and the three smallest bones in your body—malleus, incus, and stapes.
• Inner ear: Includes the cochlea and the Eustachian tube, which is responsible for balancing pressure in the ears.

Ear popping occurs when your Eustachian tube opens to equalize pressure between your middle ear and the outside environment. This is a natural process, but when your ears can’t adjust quickly, it can lead to that uncomfortable, “clogged” sensation.

Why Do Ears Pop When Flying or at High Altitudes?

As altitude increases—whether during air travel or while hiking—the surrounding air pressure drops. But the air inside your middle ear stays the same. This difference in pressure creates a feeling of fullness or discomfort until the Eustachian tube opens to “pop” your ears and restore balance.

Common triggers for altitude-related ear popping include:

• Takeoff and landing during air travel
• Driving or hiking in mountainous areas
• Sudden elevation changes in elevators or tunnels

Many people experience this more intensely when they’re sick or congested, as nasal inflammation can block the Eustachian tube.

Why Do My Ears Keep Popping All the Time?

Occasional popping is normal, but chronic or frequent ear popping could point to an underlying issue, especially if it’s happening without altitude changes. Possible causes include:

• Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD)
• Seasonal allergies
• Sinus infections or colds
• Excess earwax buildup
• Jaw misalignment or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

If the sensation happens in only one ear, it may be due to a localized blockage, such as impacted earwax or fluid buildup in that ear. Bilateral ear popping (in both ears) is more commonly associated with pressure-related issues like altitude or congestion.

In persistent cases, it’s important to talk to a hearing care provider or ENT to rule out infections or structural problems.

How to Safely Relieve Pressure in Your Ears

If your ears won’t pop and you’re starting to feel pressure or discomfort, try these safe, gentle techniques:

• Chew gum or yawn to stimulate the muscles around the Eustachian tube.
• Swallow repeatedly—sipping water can help.
• Try the Valsalva maneuver: Gently pinch your nose, close your mouth, and blow out softly. Be careful not to blow too hard, as it can cause damage.
• Use a nasal decongestant (with medical guidance) if you're congested or have allergies.

Important: Never insert cotton swabs or other objects into your ear to relieve pressure.

Can Ear Popping Affect My Hearing?

Occasional popping isn’t typically harmful. But if your Eustachian tube remains blocked for too long, it can lead to:

• Temporary hearing loss
• Muffled hearing
• Ear infections
• Chronic discomfort or dizziness

To learn more about related hearing symptoms, check out our blogs on:

• Why Does My Hearing Sound Muffled?
• The Link Between Dizziness and Hearing Loss
• Take Our Free Online Hearing Test

When Should I See a Hearing Care Professional?

It’s time to get help if:

• Your ears pop frequently without an obvious trigger
• You experience pain, muffled hearing, or dizziness that won’t go away
• The popping is only in one ear and lasts longer than a few days

These may be signs of a deeper problem, such as Eustachian tube dysfunction or infection. Getting a professional consultation can help protect your hearing long-term.

Ear popping is more than just an annoyance—it’s your body’s way of protecting the delicate balance in your ears. But if something feels off or becomes chronic, don’t ignore it. Your hearing health is worth listening to.

Have more questions about your hearing? Beltone’s network of hearing care experts is ready to help you feel and hear your best.