How To Open A Blocked Ear At Home
What Is Blocked Ear?
Blocked ear is a common problem characterized by a feeling of fullness, muffled hearing, and an inability to hear certain sounds. It is usually caused by a buildup of fluid, earwax, or some other blockage in the ear canal. Blocked ear can be temporary or chronic and can cause mild to severe discomfort.
What Causes Blocked Ear?
Blocked ear can be caused by a number of things. The most common causes are a buildup of earwax, fluid in the middle ear, or an infection in the ear. Other causes include allergies, a foreign object in the ear, sinus infections, and Eustachian tube dysfunction.
What Are The Symptoms Of Blocked Ear?
The main symptom of blocked ear is a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Other symptoms can include muffled hearing, earache, ringing in the ear, and a feeling of dizziness or balance problems. In some cases, blockage of the ear can also cause hearing loss.
How To Open A Blocked Ear At Home
1. Try to Clear the Earwax
Earwax can often cause a blocked ear. To try and clear the earwax, you can use a warm compress or a few drops of baby oil or mineral oil in the ear. This can help to soften the wax and allow it to flow out of the ear more easily.
2. Try Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation can be a great way to help open a blocked ear. You can use a hot water bottle or a steam machine to create a steam inhalation. Make sure that the steam is not too hot and is not directed directly into the ear, as this can cause damage.
3. Use Ear Drops
Ear drops can be a great way to help open a blocked ear. There are many different types of ear drops available, so it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist to find out which is right for you. Ear drops can help to soften the wax and help it to flow out of the ear more easily.
4. Try Jaw Exercises
Jaw exercises can be a great way to help open a blocked ear. You can try clenching your jaw, moving your jaw up and down, and doing circular motions with your jaw. These exercises can help to reduce the pressure in the ear, allowing the fluid to flow out more easily.
5. See Your Doctor
If the above methods do not help to open a blocked ear, it is important to seek medical advice. Your doctor can rule out any underlying medical conditions and can also prescribe medication or advise on other treatments which may be helpful.
Conclusion
Blocked ear can be a very uncomfortable condition, but it is usually not serious. There are a number of home remedies which can help to open a blocked ear and relieve the symptoms. However, if these do not help, it is important to see your doctor for further advice.