HomeAnswersGeneral Medicineclogged earWhy do our ears feel full or clogged when we are in a closed room?

Ears feel clogged while in a closed room. Why?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Nithila. A

Published At June 11, 2019
Reviewed AtFebruary 17, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Why do our ears feel full or clogged when we are in a closed room? Are these because of air pressure and ambient noise?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Rather than a closed or open room, this is related to outside and inside ear pressure. There is an air cavity in our ear called a middle ear, and there is a membrane which separates this cavity from the external environment called a tympanic layer. So, there is air on either side of the tympanic membrane. So, when pressure on either side if high, then the membrane gets fixed and cannot move properly, giving the feeling of a clogged ear.

And there is a connection between the middle ear cavity and our throat which equalizes pressure within the ear cavity and outside environment. So, whenever one gets an infection, then this tube blocked and there occurs a mismatch of pressure leading to clogged ear. And also swallowing movements opens this tube temporarily, which helps in equalizing the pressure leading to relief. Similar things occur when one travels in an airplane. So pressure changes are decisive in this. I hope this helps you and get back if you have any doubts.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I hope hearing air like sound in an extremely silent room is also normal? I was suggested to play music or have ventilation when alone.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, it can be heard normally.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode
Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode

Cardiology

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