How to Pop Your Ears: Advice for Babies and Adults

Have you ever experienced that uncomfortable feeling of pressure or fullness in your ears, as if they were clogged or blocked? It’s a common sensation that many of us have encountered at some point. The good news is that there are techniques to help relieve this discomfort and restore your ears to their normal state.

Whether you’ve encountered ear pressure due to altitude changes, sinus congestion, or other factors, understanding how to pop your ears can bring quick relief and restore your hearing to its optimal state. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind ear pressure, the importance of ear popping, and various effective methods to safely and comfortably pop your ears.

So, let’s dive in and discover the art of relieving ear pressure and restoring balance to your auditory world.

Remember, it’s important to exercise caution when attempting to pop your ears. Avoid forceful or excessive blowing, as it can cause harm to your eardrums. If you experience severe or prolonged ear pressure or if these techniques do not provide relief, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

Practicing good ear health habits, such as avoiding exposure to loud noises, maintaining proper ear hygiene, and managing allergies or nasal congestion, can help prevent ear pressure and related issues. If you have recurring problems with ear pressure or frequently experience difficulty equalizing ear pressure during activities like flying or scuba diving, consulting an ear, nose, and throat specialist may be beneficial.

Signs a Baby or Young Child Needs to Pop Their Ears

Babies and young children may not be able to express their discomfort or communicate their need to pop their ears verbally. However, there are some signs you can look for that may indicate they need to pop their ears:

1. Irritability or fussiness:  If you notice a change in your child’s behavior during travel, such as becoming more fussy, restless, or inconsolable, it could be a sign that they are experiencing discomfort due to pressure changes in their ears. Especially during or after changes in altitude (such as during a flight or a drive up or down a mountain).
2. Tugging or pulling at the ears: Babies and young children may instinctively tug or pull at their ears when they feel discomfort or pressure. If you notice your child frequently touching or pulling their ears, it could indicate the need to pop their ears.
3. Changes in feeding or sleep patterns: Ear pressure can cause discomfort that interferes with feeding or sleeping. If you notice your child is having difficulty with feeding or is having disrupted sleep patterns during or after situations that involve pressure changes, it may be a sign that their ears need to be popped.
4. Difficulty swallowing: If your child is experiencing ear pressure, they may have difficulty swallowing, especially during feeding or when trying to drink from a bottle or sippy cup. They may appear to be struggling or showing signs of discomfort while swallowing.
5. Changes in response to noise: Ear pressure can affect how your child perceives sounds. They may become more sensitive to loud noises or seem startled by sounds that would not usually bother them.
6. Changes in balance or coordination: In some cases, ear pressure can affect a child’s sense of balance or coordination. They may appear unsteady on their feet or have difficulty maintaining their balance.

It’s important to note that these signs are not exclusive to the need to pop ears, and they can also be indicators of other issues. If you suspect that your child is experiencing ear discomfort, it’s advisable to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and guidance.

How to Help a Baby or Young Child Pop Their Ears

Helping a baby or young child pop their ears can be a bit challenging since they may not understand the instructions or be able to perform certain techniques themselves. However, there are a few strategies you can try:

1. Encourage swallowing: If your child is old enough to eat solid foods or drink from a cup, offering them a snack or a sip of water can encourage swallowing. Swallowing helps open the Eustachian tubes and may assist in equalizing the pressure in their ears.
2. Use a pacifier: For infants, offering them a pacifier to suck on during changes in altitude or when experiencing pressure changes can help them swallow and alleviate ear pressure.
3. Gentle nose blowing: If your child is capable of blowing their nose gently, encourage them to do so. Blowing their nose can help open the Eustachian tubes and relieve ear pressure. Make sure to demonstrate the proper technique and supervise them closely.
4. Yawning: Engage your child in activities that may naturally make them yawn, such as telling a funny story or playing a game that requires opening their mouth wide. Yawning can help equalize the pressure in their ears.
5. Offer comfort and distractions: Sometimes, providing comfort and distractions can help ease any discomfort caused by ear pressure. Singing a song, playing soft music, or engaging them in a favorite activity can help redirect their focus and alleviate any discomfort they may be experiencing.
6. Nursing or Bottle-Feeding: If your baby is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, try feeding them during times of pressure changes, such as during takeoff and landing on an airplane. The sucking motion and swallowing can help equalize the pressure in their ears.
7. Burping: Burping your baby after feeding can help relieve any built-up gas in their digestive system, which may indirectly help with ear pressure. Gently pat or rub their back to encourage burping.
8. Gentle Massage: You can try gently massaging around your child’s ears, jawline, and neck area. This can help promote relaxation and potentially aid in relieving ear pressure.
9. Warm Compress: Applying a warm, damp washcloth or a warm compress to your child’s ears for a few minutes can help relax the muscles around the Eustachian tubes and potentially assist in equalizing the pressure.
10. Humming or Singing: Humming or softly singing can help create vibrations in the throat and may encourage the opening of the Eustachian tubes.
11. Sucking on a Straw or Sippy Cup: If your child is old enough to use a straw or a sippy cup, encourage them to sip on a drink through a straw or sippy cup during pressure changes. The sucking motion can help promote swallowing and relieve ear pressure.
12. Nasal Saline Drops: Using saline nasal drops or a saline spray can help clear any congestion in your child’s nasal passages. Clear nasal passages can facilitate easier equalization of ear pressure. Follow the instructions on the product packaging and consult with a pediatrician if needed.

Is It Normal To Feel Discomfort When Popping the Ears?

Yes, it is normal to feel some discomfort or pressure when popping the ears. This sensation is often described as a slight fullness, heaviness, or even a brief sharp pain. When you try to pop your ears, you are equalizing the pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment. This pressure equalization can cause a temporary sensation of discomfort.

The discomfort typically subsides quickly once the pressure is equalized, and you may feel a sense of relief. However, it’s important to note that if you experience severe or prolonged pain, hearing loss, or any other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. These could be signs of an underlying ear issue or injury that requires professional evaluation and treatment.

Why Do My Ears Feel Clogged Even After Popping Them?

There are several reasons why your ears may continue to feel clogged even after popping them:

1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the throat and help equalize the pressure in the ears. If these tubes become blocked or do not function properly, it can lead to a persistent feeling of ear fullness or clogging.
2. Sinus Congestion: Sinus congestion, often due to allergies, colds, or sinusitis, can cause inflammation and blockage in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes. This can result in a sensation of clogged ears even after attempting to pop them.
3. Fluid in the Middle Ear: Fluid accumulation in the middle ear, known as serous otitis media or middle ear effusion, can cause a persistent feeling of ear fullness or clogging. This can happen after an ear infection, due to Eustachian tube dysfunction, or as a result of other factors.
4. Earwax Buildup: Excessive earwax can block the ear canal and lead to a sensation of clogged ears. Although popping the ears can provide temporary relief, if the underlying cause is earwax, it may not fully resolve the issue.
5. Underlying Ear Conditions: Certain ear conditions, such as Meniere’s disease or patulous Eustachian tubes, can cause chronic ear fullness or clogging. These conditions require specific medical attention and management.

If you consistently experience clogged ears or if the sensation persists despite attempts to pop them, it’s advisable to consult with an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) or a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your specific situation, identify the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment options to relieve the sensation of clogged ears.

Can I Damage My Ears By Forcefully Trying To Pop Them?

Yes, forcefully trying to pop your ears can potentially lead to ear damage. It’s important to exercise caution and use gentle methods to equalize ear pressure. Forceful techniques or excessive pressure can cause harm to delicate structures within the ears, including the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the tiny bones responsible for hearing (ossicles).

Forcefully trying to pop your ears can result in:

1. Eardrum damage: Applying excessive force or using sharp objects to insert into the ear canal can lead to eardrum perforation or rupture. This can cause pain, hearing loss, and potential complications.
2. Middle ear injuries: The middle ear contains delicate bones that transmit sound vibrations. Forceful manipulation or pressure can damage these bones, leading to hearing problems or other complications.
3. Inner ear damage: The inner ear houses the organs responsible for balance and hearing. Forceful actions may disrupt the delicate structures in the inner ear and potentially result in balance issues, dizziness, or hearing loss.

To avoid potential harm, it’s recommended to use gentle and non-invasive methods to equalize ear pressure, such as swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva maneuver (closing your mouth, pinching your nose, and gently blowing through your closed nostrils). If you have persistent ear pressure, discomfort, or concerns about your ears, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

What Are Some Home Remedies or Over-the-Counter Products That Can Help With Ear Popping?

While it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance, there are a few home remedies and over-the-counter products that may help with ear popping:

1. Chewing gum or yawning: These actions promote swallowing and jaw movements, which can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalize ear pressure.
2. Swallowing or drinking: Swallowing or sipping water can also promote the opening of the Eustachian tubes and alleviate ear pressure. You can try taking small sips of water or swallowing in a deliberate and exaggerated manner.
3. Nasal decongestants: Over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays or oral decongestants can help reduce nasal congestion and open the Eustachian tubes. However, it’s important to use these products as directed and avoid prolonged or excessive use, as they can cause rebound congestion or other side effects. Consult a healthcare professional before using any medication, especially in children.
4. Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress or warm towel to the affected ear can help relieve discomfort and promote relaxation of the muscles surrounding the Eustachian tubes, potentially facilitating the equalization of ear pressure.
5. Saline nasal rinses: Using a saline nasal rinse or saline nasal spray can help clear nasal congestion, reduce inflammation, and improve the function of the Eustachian tubes.

It’s important to note that these remedies may not work for everyone or in every situation, and their effectiveness may vary depending on the underlying cause of the ear popping. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and appropriate treatment recommendations based on your specific condition.

Are There Any Exercises or Techniques to Prevent Ears from Getting Clogged in the First Place?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent ears from getting clogged, there are a few techniques and practices that can help minimize the occurrence:

1. Swallowing and yawning: Frequent swallowing and yawning can help keep the Eustachian tubes open and prevent them from becoming blocked. You can consciously swallow or yawn during activities such as flying, driving in hilly areas, or ascending or descending in elevators.
2. Avoiding rapid pressure changes: When possible, try to avoid situations with rapid pressure changes, such as scuba diving, skydiving, or flying in an unpressurized cabin. If you cannot avoid these situations, use techniques like swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva maneuver (explained below) to equalize the pressure in your ears.
3. Valsalva maneuver: This technique involves gently pinching your nostrils closed, closing your mouth, and then attempting to exhale gently through your nose. This can help equalize the pressure in your ears by forcing air through the Eustachian tubes.
4. Yawning exercises: Some individuals find that practicing voluntary yawns or jaw movements can help keep their Eustachian tubes open and prevent clogging. You can try yawning exercises throughout the day, especially during pressure changes or when you feel your ears starting to get clogged.
5. Keeping nasal passages clear: Maintain good nasal hygiene by using saline nasal rinses or sprays to keep your nasal passages clear. This can help prevent congestion and ensure proper functioning of the Eustachian tubes.
6. Avoiding earwax buildup: Excessive earwax can contribute to ear clogging. Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears, as this can push the wax deeper and cause blockages. If you have excessive earwax, consult a healthcare professional for safe and appropriate methods of earwax removal.

Remember, everyone’s ears and Eustachian tubes are unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you frequently experience ear clogging or have concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an ear, nose, and throat specialist for a proper evaluation and personalized guidance.

Can Allergies or Sinus Issues Affect Ear Popping?

Yes, allergies and sinus issues can affect ear popping. The Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, play a crucial role in equalizing the pressure between the middle ear and the environment. When you have allergies or sinus congestion, the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes can become inflamed, blocked, or filled with excess mucus. This can disrupt the normal airflow and pressure equalization, leading to difficulties in ear popping or a feeling of ear fullness.

Common ways in which allergies and sinus issues can impact ear popping include:

1. Nasal congestion: Allergies or sinus congestion can cause nasal passages to become swollen and congested. When the nasal passages are blocked, it can be challenging for air to flow freely through the Eustachian tubes, resulting in difficulty in equalizing ear pressure.
2. Mucus production: Allergies and sinus issues often lead to increased production of mucus. Excessive mucus can accumulate in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, obstructing their function and making it harder to equalize ear pressure.
3. Eustachian tube dysfunction: Chronic allergies or sinus issues can contribute to Eustachian tube dysfunction, which occurs when the tubes fail to open and close properly. This dysfunction can lead to persistent difficulties in ear popping and increased susceptibility to ear-related problems.

If you have allergies or sinus issues that affect your ability to pop your ears or if you experience persistent ear fullness or discomfort, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. They can assess your specific condition, provide appropriate treatment options to manage your allergies or sinus issues, and offer strategies to help alleviate the impact on ear popping.

How Long Does it Usually Take for Ears to Pop Naturally?

The time it takes for ears to naturally pop can vary from person to person and depends on the underlying cause of the ear pressure or clogging. In some cases, ears may pop relatively quickly, while in others, it may take longer or require intervention. Here are some factors that can influence the duration:

1. Mild congestion: If the ear pressure or clogging is due to mild congestion, such as from a common cold or seasonal allergies, the ears may naturally pop within a few hours or days as the congestion resolves.
2. Sinus or nasal issues: If the ear pressure is associated with sinus or nasal issues, it may take longer to resolve. The time frame can vary depending on the severity of the congestion or inflammation, and it may take a few days or weeks for the ears to naturally pop as the underlying condition improves.
3. Eustachian tube dysfunction: If the Eustachian tubes are not functioning properly, it can result in chronic ear pressure or clogging. In such cases, the duration for the ears to naturally pop may be longer, and intervention or management strategies may be necessary.
4. Altitude changes: During rapid changes in altitude, such as when flying or driving through hilly areas, it’s common for the ears to feel clogged. Normally, the ears should naturally pop within a few minutes as the pressure equalizes during the ascent or descent.

What Should I Do If My Ears Won’t Pop Despite Trying Various Methods?

If you have tried these measures and your ears still won’t pop, or if you experience severe pain, sudden hearing loss, or other concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional or an ear, nose, and throat specialist can assess your specific situation, provide appropriate evaluation, and offer further guidance or treatment options to alleviate the ear pressure or clogging.

Can I Pop My Ears Too Often or Too Forcefully?

Yes, it is possible to pop your ears too often or too forcefully, and doing so may lead to potential risks or complications. Here are a few points to consider:

1. Eustachian tube irritation: Excessively and forcefully popping your ears can irritate the delicate lining of the Eustachian tubes. This can result in inflammation, swelling, or damage to the tubes, making them less effective in equalizing ear pressure in the future.
2. Ear trauma: Applying excessive pressure or using improper techniques to pop your ears can cause trauma to the delicate structures of the ears. This may lead to discomfort, pain, or injury to the eardrum or middle ear.
3. Infection risk: If you frequently manipulate your ears or use unclean objects to pop them, you may introduce bacteria or other microorganisms into the ear canal, increasing the risk of ear infections.
4. Temporary relief masking underlying issues: Frequent ear popping might temporarily alleviate symptoms of ear pressure or clogging, but it may not address the underlying cause. It’s essential to identify and address the root cause of the problem, especially if it persists or recurs frequently.

If you are experiencing persistent or recurring issues with ear pressure or clogging, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. They can evaluate your specific condition, provide appropriate guidance, and recommend proper techniques or treatments to address the underlying cause and help you achieve long-term relief without the potential risks associated with excessive or forceful ear popping.

Are There Any Medical Conditions That Can Affect Ear Popping and Require Professional Intervention?

Yes, there are several medical conditions that can affect ear popping and may require professional intervention. Here are a few examples:

1. Eustachian tube dysfunction: Eustachian tube dysfunction occurs when the Eustachian tubes fail to open and close properly, leading to difficulties in equalizing ear pressure. This can result from conditions such as allergies, sinus infections, chronic nasal congestion, anatomical abnormalities, or blockages in the Eustachian tubes. Professional intervention may involve identifying and treating the underlying cause, prescribing medications to reduce inflammation or congestion, or recommending procedures to help improve Eustachian tube function.
2. Middle ear infections: Middle ear infections, also known as otitis media, can cause ear pressure and clogging. These infections often result from bacterial or viral infections and can be accompanied by symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, and fluid buildup in the middle ear. Treatment typically involves medical intervention, such as antibiotics (for bacterial infections) or supportive care to manage symptoms. In some cases, recurrent or chronic middle ear infections may require further evaluation and specialized interventions.
3. Meniere’s disease: Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause recurring episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a feeling of ear fullness or pressure. These symptoms can impact ear popping and require professional intervention for diagnosis and management. Treatment may involve medications to control symptoms, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, surgical or minimally invasive procedures.
4. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, which can lead to ear-related symptoms such as ear pain, ear clogging, and difficulties in ear popping. Professional intervention may involve dental or oral specialist evaluation, physical therapy, medications for pain management, or other targeted treatments for TMJ disorders.

If you are experiencing persistent or concerning issues with ear popping, such as frequent or severe difficulties in equalizing ear pressure, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. They can assess your specific situation, conduct a thorough evaluation, and recommend appropriate interventions or treatments based on the underlying condition causing the ear-related symptoms.

Now You Know All About How to Pop Your Ears