Wax buildup can create plugs that make it hard to hear. In order not to go to these extremes, certain home remedies can serve as a complement to medical treatment.
For different reasons, we can cover our ears, either because of an excess of wax or because water entered that melted the wax and formed a plug. Using home remedies can help unclog the ears, avoiding discomfort and lack of hearing, while avoiding possible infections.
Why are the ears plugged?
One of the most common reasons are respiratory infections; that is, those that occur in the upper respiratory tract, such as sinusitis or colds.
In these cases, the ducts that connect the nose to the inner ear fill with mucus, which can lead to ear plugging. That is why nasal decongestants are proposed as a drinkable solution to unclog the ears.
The second cause is the accumulation of wax, especially when very thick plugs are formed that can only be removed with the corresponding tools and knowledge.
Another major cause of ear plugging, as stated before, is water. When we dive, it is likely that some of the water enters the middle ear and produces the so-called swimmer’s ear.
This water will come out sooner or later, but it will have caused the wax accumulated on the walls of the ear canal to melt and create a plug.
Being taller than you are used to also causes plugging in your ears. Therefore, it is common for people when they travel by plane to experience this discomfort, especially during takeoff. It also occurs when making excursions or trips to sites several thousand meters above sea level.
How to unclog ears according to cause
There are different ways to unclog the ears. Choosing one or the other will depend on the cause that caused the problem. Before resorting to any of these homemade alternatives, remember that none of them can substitute the treatment indicated by the doctor. If the ears do not open after several days, the medical consultation should be carried out without exception.
Wax buildup
In the event that the ears begin to plug due to a wax buildup (and before a plug is formed), they can be uncovered with a few drops of alcohol, which also helps dry the ear after wax removal.
Tilt your head and pour a few drops, using an eyedropper. Hold the position for five minutes. Put some cotton in the ear and return to the upright position.
Another option to unclog the ears is to mix a few drops of warm water and olive oil or baby oil, as recommended by specialized publications.
To do this, place the ear on its side and leave for five minutes. Clean any debris that may come out of the ear with a clean cloth. Rinse with warm water to soften the wax and towel dry very gently.
And, in any case, resist the temptation to use swabs (earbuds), since what they do is compact the wax and help the formation of the plug.
Height plugging
In the event that the plugging of the ears is caused by an airplane trip or pressure difference, it can be alleviated by chewing gum or sucking on candy. Gathering a good amount of saliva in your mouth and swallowing at once helps to balance the pressure.
To unclog your ears, another good option is to open your mouth as wide as possible to force a yawn. The incoming air will balance the pressure.
You can also squeeze the nose to cover the nostrils and exhale with your mouth closed; don’t do it too hard because you can damage the eardrums.
Cold and sinusitis: causes of ear plugging
If your ears get clogged from a cold or sinusitis, taking a steam bath can be a perfect and, above all, a comprehensive solution. Inhale the steam to decongest not only the ears but also the nose. If you add to the water that will boil a few drops of eucalyptus oil, you will get better results.
You can also blow your nose with a handkerchief, several times, to expel all the extra mucus and relieve general congestion.
In addition to those already indicated above, Cleveland Clinic indicates that hydrogen peroxide can also be used, placing one or two drops in the covered ear. It may take several minutes to enjoy the relief.
Dry environment
If congestion is caused by living in a dry environment, use a cold mist humidifier in the room or in the room. This will help to remove the accumulated mucosa and unclog the ear and nasal canals.
A homemade recipe that was used many years ago (sure by our grandmothers or mothers) is to put hot water in a bottle with a lid. You can also use the typical hot water bottle or for the most modern ones, the electric heating pad.
Lie down on the hot water, resting the affected ear on the bottle. Within a few minutes, you should feel the wax begin to melt. Consult with your doctor before resorting to this alternative, to ensure you use it correctly.
Finally, it is always advisable to see a doctor if the tamponade continues and none of the treatments works. It is important not to exceed its application, nor the amount applied, as there may be problems in the ears.