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How to Unclog Blocked Ears: What’s the Most Effective Way?

Dr. Kelsie Tomlin Au.D.

May 17, 2025

Having clogged ears can be uncomfortable and frustrating. But when you’re dealing with blocked ears, it’s important to seek relief that addresses the issue not only quickly but also effectively.

Fortunately, there are several methods available that you can use safely at home, alongside professional options that ensure thorough care.

Rest assured that with some help from your friendly neighborhood hearing health clinic, you can remove those annoying blockages and get back to hearing the life you love with ease!

Understanding the Causes of Clogged Ears

Before diving into remedies, it helps to understand why your ears might feel blocked. There can be several reasons why your ears feel blocked, leading to dizziness, muffled hearing, earaches, and more symptoms that can severely impact your quality of life.

Often, clogged ears are caused by:

  • Earwax Buildup: A common reason for blockage, excessive earwax can harden and obstruct the ear canal.

  • Fluid Accumulation: Fluid can accumulate in the middle ear, often occurring due to a cold, sinus infections, or allergies.

  • Altitude Changes: Rapid pressure changes, such as during air travel or mountain driving, can cause temporary blockages.

  • Sinus Pressure: Pressure in the sinuses can result from infections or allergies and affect ear function.

Simple DIY Methods to Relieve Clogged Ears

  • Valsalva Maneuver: This simple method involves gently blowing while pinching your nose and keeping your mouth closed. The technique can be beneficial in equalizing the pressure in your ears; it’s a common fix for when you’re on an airplane and the altitude pressure affects your ears.

  • Chewing Gum or Yawning: Both these actions can help in relieving pressure, especially when dealing with altitude changes.

  • Warm Compress: By placing a warm cloth over the affected ear, you can alleviate discomfort from sinus-related blockages, facilitating drainage.

  • Steam Therapy: Taking a hot shower or inhaling steam can open up the Eustachian tubes, rewarding you with relief from congestion.

Over-the-Counter Solutions to Consider

There are some methods of ear cleaning you can try at home before visiting a professional for a closer look. Quite often, at-home remedies can help alleviate some symptoms before you visit your doctor or hearing health expert for a detailed evaluation.

  • Ear Drops: You can purchase over-the-counter earwax removal drops aimed at softening hardened wax, which makes natural expulsion easier.

  • Decongestants & Antihistamines: When dealing with sinus-related clogs, these medications can reduce swelling and promote drainage.

When to Seek Professional Earwax Removal Services

Despite the effectiveness of home remedies, there are instances where seeking professional help is the best way to go.

You can rest assured that professional earwax removal is safer and more effective, particularly when home remedies fail to provide relief, you’re experiencing pain or a severe blockage, or you think there might be an infection or other underlying conditions.

At Family Hearing Care, you are in expert hands. Our cerumen management and ear cleaning services are tailored to gently clear blocked ears, reducing the risk of damaging the ear canal and providing you peace of mind that your hearing health is managed by specialists with extensive experience.

Here are a few tips to keep your ears healthy and happy at home:

  • Regular (Safe) Cleaning: Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into your ears. Instead, gently clean the outer ear with a soft cloth.

  • Manage Allergies: Control your allergies to minimize sinus problems that could lead to ear blockages.

  • Stay Hydrated: Keeping yourself well-hydrated aids in maintaining mucus flow and prevents blockages.

By following these steps and keeping an eye on your ear health, you ensure that any discomfort is short-lived.

Remember, your hearing plays a vital role in day-to-day life; taking proactive measures and seeking professional care when necessary protects your auditory health for the long term.

Hear the Life You Love With Clear, Healthy Ears

Clear, comfortable ears are a significant aspect of overall well-being. Whether you employ simple home techniques or seek professional services, taking action to clear blockages is vital.

When you prioritize your ear health, you enhance your quality of life and maintain optimal hearing health with expert care. Request a callback to get in touch with our team, or give us a call at (765) 889-4907 to see how our earwax removal services can help you.

Trust that you are not alone, and that Family Hearing Care is here to partner with you on your journey to better hearing!

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  • I had my first visit with FHC today. From the initial phone inquiry, to Intake at the office, the clinical testing; the staff and Dr were very polite, service oriented and professional.
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    C.S

    2 weeks ago

  • Dr Emily was very knowledgeable, kind, funny, helpful in getting us fixed up with hearing aids and the cost was better than some other places. We will definitely be going back.

    Kathy C

    2 weeks ago

  • I was in need of a same day appointment and Dr. P went above and beyond to accommodate me. She treated me respectfully and professionally during my hearing exam. Will use her on future visits.

    Leslie T

    1 month ago

  • Dr. Emily Kiser was just so amazing with our 6 year old during his first hearing test. She was so patient and always smiling and encouraging him.

    Natasha L

    2 months ago

  • I had my first visit with FHC today. From the initial phone inquiry, to Intake at the office, the clinical testing; the staff and Dr were very polite, service oriented and professional.
    I definitely will be a repeat patient!

    C.S

    2 weeks ago

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Request a Callback

If you have questions about your hearing or a loved one’s, we are here to help. No pressure, no obligation. Just friendly, professional guidance from people who care. 

Simply complete the form, and a member of our team will reach out to you shortly. 

Request a Callback

If you have questions about your hearing or a loved one’s, we are here to help. No pressure, no obligation. Just friendly, professional guidance from people who care. 

Simply complete the form, and a member of our team will reach out to you shortly. 

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