Most people are familiar with the pressure-releasing, popping sensation in their ears after disembarking a flight at Charleston International Airport. That sensation arises when your Eustachian tubes—the thin tubes connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat—equalize pressure between your ears and your environment.
Eustachian tube dysfunction, when your ears can’t equalize pressure, is associated with fast elevation changes, like when you’re flying or scuba diving. However, if you find yourself clearing your Eustachian tubes regularly, independent of frequent flying, you could be missing an underlying cause.
What Causes Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
Any condition that causes inflammation in the sinuses or middle ear can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction. Common culprits include:
- Allergies
- The common cold
- Flu
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
When these conditions inflame your Eustachian tubes, the tubes can’t equalize pressure effectively, leading to a feeling of fullness and frequent ear popping. Children are especially prone to Eustachian tube dysfunction because their tubes are smaller.
How Can I Stop Ear Popping?
Ear popping in and of itself isn’t usually dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable. Managing the underlying conditions that contribute to inflammation is an excellent first step in preventing dysfunction. Here are a few ways you can manage each of the main inflammation causes:
- Allergies. Take an allergy test to identify what’s triggering your symptoms. Once you know the cause, try your best to avoid it. If avoidance alone doesn’t help, medical treatment options like antihistamines, decongestants, mast cell inhibitors and steroid nasal sprays can provide short-term symptom relief. Your allergist may also recommend immunotherapy as a long-term treatment to minimize your sensitivity to certain allergens.
- The common cold. The common cold typically clears up on its own within seven to 10 days. You can manage your temporary symptoms by getting plenty of rest and taking cold and flu medication.
- Flu. Like the common cold, the flu is a temporary condition. You can usually manage your symptoms with cold and flu medication. If your flu is severe, your provider may prescribe antivirals to clear the infection.
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD). Dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments, like eating a few hours before bed and elevating your head at night, can provide relief for GERD. If your acid reflux is too severe for home remedies, your ENT specialist may recommend medication or surgeries like a LINX® device or Nissen fundoplication.
For more information on managing ear pressure, schedule an appointment with our experts at Charleston ENT & Allergy today.