With the arrival of summer, many people have experienced the annoying sensation of having clogged ears, a symptom that can appear due to colds or sudden changes in pressure. Miguel Vaca, member of the Spanish Society of Otorhinolaryngology, has explained the trick to avoid this problem and thus enjoy the season without hearing discomfort. His advice is to perform a simple and effective maneuver that has helped many people prevent this discomfort.
The specialist explains that the ear is connected to the back of the nose through the Eustachian tube, a small duct that equalizes pressure and drains secretions. During a cold, this tube can become inflamed or blocked by mucus buildup, which causes that sensation of blockage. Usually, the discomfort appears with the cold, but it can also occur during certain activities such as flights or diving, due to rapid changes in ear pressure.
Clogged ears without having a cold: common causes and solutions
Other common causes of clogged ears include allergic rhinitis and sinusitis, which can inflame the duct that connects the ear to the nose. These conditions cause inflammation and difficulty balancing the pressure inside the middle ear. That's why it is common to feel this discomfort during allergy seasons or respiratory infections.
To combat this discomfort, Miguel Vaca recommends performing the Valsalva maneuver, which consists of closing the mouth, pinching the nose, and gently trying to blow air through the nose. This technique allows you to balance the pressure inside the middle ear and relieve the blockage quickly and safely. He also advises steam inhalations and nasal washes with saline solution to loosen the mucus.
If the blockage doesn't go away: warning signs
If the sensation of a clogged ear persists beyond the cold or is accompanied by severe pain, the ENT specialist recommends consulting a doctor to rule out infections such as otitis. These infections can cause the accumulation of pus or mucus in the ear, worsening the symptoms. In those cases, treatment usually includes anti-inflammatories and nasal sprays with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and facilitate recovery.
In more severe or persistent situations, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary to place a transtympanic drainage tube. This device helps relieve the pressure inside the ear and allows the Eustachian tube to regain its function. It is a temporary solution that significantly improves quality of life when other treatments have not been sufficient.
Finally, Miguel points out that, although certain mild discomforts are common, severe or persistent pain may be a sign of a need for urgent medical attention. Paying attention to these symptoms and following his advice will allow you to enjoy the summer without suffering from the uncomfortable blockage of the ears. Thus, taking care of hearing health is essential so that no setback affects the best moments of the season.