Explain blocked ear and how to open a blocked ear?
If you experience a sensation of blocked ears, especially due to a cold, sore throat, allergies, or after flying, there are methods to help open them up.
One such method is the Valsalva Maneuver, an age-old technique for relieving blocked ears. To perform this maneuver, follow these steps: close your mouth, pinch your nostrils tightly, inflate your cheeks, and then apply gentle pressure towards your ears. You may hear a crackling sound, indicating that the ear is opening up.
However, some precautions should be taken: avoid applying excessive pressure, refrain from using this method if you have severely infected sinuses, and do not repeat the maneuver excessively. If the Valsalva Maneuver does not provide relief, it could be indicative of another underlying cause, and seeking an ENT check-up is advisable.
During an ENT examination, your ears will be carefully assessed, and simple tests like Audiogram Impedance Audiometry may be recommended to evaluate the function of the middle ear.
Background Information: The Eustachian Tube, a narrow passage connecting the back of the nose with the middle ear, plays a crucial role in keeping the middle ear filled with air. When conditions like a bad cold, nasal allergies, sore throat, tonsillitis, or adenoid enlargement occur, the Eustachian Tube can become blocked with mucus or inflamed. This blockage leads to the absorption of air within the middle ear, causing negative pressure that pulls the eardrum inward toward the middle ear.
Disclaimer: The contents of this blog, including any information, products, or services offered, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
