Why does my ear keep poping and I can't hear very well. Like if something is blocking my hearing?

Question

Ear poping

Answer 1

Popping is usually caused by a release of air pressure when the Eustachian tube opens and allows air up into the middle ear space behind the eardrum. When the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly, the eardrum can become retracted by negative air pressure behind it, so there's a popping senation when it is suddenly released.

Allergies, colds and other upper respiratory ailments can prevent the Eustachian tube from opening and closing the way it should during yawning and swallowing. If it remains this way, fluid can build up in the middle ear space, which makes you feel even more plugged and your heaering is more muffled. If an infection (bacteria) grows in the fluid, it can be very painful and could rupture the eardrum if it is not properly treated.

If your symptoms are accompanied by fever, pain or dizziness, see a doctor as soon as possible. If they are only mildly annoying, you might wait a few days to see if it resolves on its own.

Yes, sometimes a build-up of wax could also have similar symptoms; but DO NOT use a cotton swab, because you could push the wax deeper into the ear canal, and could even rupture your eardrum in the process!

Answer 2

You most likely have a build-up of ear wax.

Try to gently clean your ear with a cotton swab. Be very careful not to stick it deep into your ear. If you see that a lot of ear wax shows up either go to the store to buy an ear wax removal kit or go to the doctor's office and have them wash it all out.

Answer 3

popping in the ears could be a sign of inner ear or sinus infection--happens to me all the time, go to the doctor