This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What does “ear block” mean?
Ear block (blocked ear) is a feeling of fullness, pressure or muffled hearing. It usually happens when something prevents sound from passing through the ear canal or middle ear properly.
2. What are the common causes of a blocked ear?
Common causes include:
- Earwax build-up
- Fluid behind the eardrum after a cold
- Eustachian tube blockage (allergies/sinus issues)
- Air pressure changes (flying, diving)
- Swimmer’s ear (infection of the ear canal)
3. How do I know if it’s earwax?
Earwax blockage often causes muffled hearing, a “plugged” feeling, and sometimes crackling. Pain is usually mild — if pain is strong, it may be another issue.
4. What can I do at home for a blocked ear?
You may try:
- Warm olive oil or wax-softening drops (only if no pain or discharge)
- Chewing gum or swallowing to open the Eustachian tube
- Steam inhalation for sinus congestion
Avoid cotton buds — they push wax deeper.
5. Should I try to remove the wax myself?
No. Avoid cotton buds, hairpins or other objects. They can push wax deeper or damage the ear canal/eardrum. If drops don’t help, a GP can remove wax safely.
6. Can a cold or sinus infection block my ears?
Yes. Cold viruses and allergies can block the Eustachian tube, trapping air and causing popping or muffled hearing. It usually improves as the cold resolves.
7. When should I see a GP for a blocked ear?
See a doctor if you have:
- Pain or fever
- Ear discharge
- Sudden or worsening hearing loss
- Blockage lasting more than a few days
- Vertigo or ringing
- A suspected object in the ear
8. Is ear syringing safe?
Syringing is safe when done by trained clinicians. It may not be suitable if you’ve had eardrum perforation, major infections or ear surgery. Your GP may recommend syringing or microsuction.
9. How long does blocked-ear feeling last after flying?
Usually minutes to hours. Sometimes 1–2 days if the Eustachian tube is swollen. Swallowing, yawning, chewing gum or using a short-term decongestant spray can help.
10. How can I prevent ear block in the future?
- Avoid cotton buds
- Treat allergies early
- Use saline or steroid sprays if recommended
- Chew gum during flights
- Keep ears dry after swimming
- See your GP for recurrent wax build-up
