Why does my ear sometimes feel blocked?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing this issue for a couple of years now. Every few days or sometimes after a few weeks, my right ear suddenly feels clogged, almost like the pressure you feel when flying or driving up a hill.

I try to pop my ear, pull it gently, or even create suction to relieve it, but nothing seems to work. The sensation usually goes away on its own, but sometimes it lasts for a whole day or even several days, the longest being about six days in a row.

What could be causing this recurring ear blockage?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern. It sounds like what you are feeling, that clogged or full sensation in your right ear, like when flying or changing altitude, is quite likely due to a problem with pressure regulation inside your ear, rather than something being stuck there.

Why might your ear keep feeling blocked?

This kind of on-and-off pressure, sometimes lasting for a few days, is often caused by Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). The Eustachian tube connects the back of your nose to the middle ear and helps equalize pressure. When it does not open or close properly, it can create that plugged feeling or make it hard to pop your ears.

Common triggers include:

Allergies or sinus congestion.
Recent colds or upper respiratory infections.
Sudden weather or altitude changes.
Even mild swelling after sneezing fits or nasal irritation.

Sometimes, earwax can also contribute to that blocked sensation, but wax usually causes constant, rather than intermittent, symptoms.

Could my medication be causing this?

You mentioned using medication for ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), possibly Vyvanse or Focalin. These drugs do not usually cause ear fullness directly, but a few people notice ear popping or pressure if they are feeling anxious, tense their jaw, or grind their teeth. These effects are uncommon and not harmful, but they can make ear sensations feel worse.

What can you try at home?

Here are a few simple ways to ease that blocked-ear feeling:

Try a gentle Valsalva maneuver (closing your mouth, pinching your nose, and lightly blowing) to help open the tube, but do not overdo it.
Use a saline nasal spray or nasal steroid spray (like Fluticasone) if you have allergies or sinus congestion.
Avoid putting objects like earbuds, cotton swabs, or anything else into your ear; it can worsen irritation or push wax deeper.
Steam inhalation or a warm shower can help open up nasal passages and improve pressure balance.

Everyday habits that make a difference:

If your ear feels blocked during stressful moments or when concentrating, you might be clenching your jaw without realizing it. Try gentle jaw stretches or relaxation exercises to relieve tension.

Also, stay hydrated, manage allergies well, and maintain nasal hygiene, small steps that can help your ears stay balanced naturally.

When to see a doctor?

If the sensation becomes constant, is associated with pain, hearing loss, discharge, or dizziness, it is time to visit an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. Persistent, one-sided symptoms may need a quick ear and sinus check to rule out chronic ETD (chronic eustachian tube dysfunction) or fluid buildup.

In your case, given that the symptom comes and goes with no pain or major hearing change, it is most likely Eustachian tube dysfunction triggered by minor nasal or sinus issues. With good nasal care, allergy control, and simple self-care, it should gradually improve.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Why does my ear sometimes feel blocked?

Why does your ear feel blocked?