Plugged Ear Symptoms

Plugged ears are a frequent occurrence in individuals who suffer from allergies or sinus problems. Generally, plugged ears are the product of an ear infection or ear inflammation, but what exactly are the symptoms of a plugged ear?

Stuffiness

Plugged ears feel like pressure and congestion within the ear canal, resulting in a muffling of noises.

Ear Pain

Depending on the inflammation, the plugged ear can be painful. If it is an infection causing the stuffiness, pain will be associated due to the inflammation within the canal.

Ear Popping

Another symptom of plugged ears is the sensation of the ear's popping. This is the release of air through the canal when chewing, swallowing or yawning, and is actually helpful to the plug.

Excessive Wax

Waxy build up can cause plugged ears, so maintenance with flushing and cleaning with Q-tips will help remove waxy build-up.

Water Build-up

Also know as swimmer's ear, water trapped in the Eustachian tubes can breed bacteria and infection, which will result in inflammation and stuffiness.

Sinus drainage

When the sinuses are blocked, the mucous can drain back into the Eustachian tube of the inner ear and spread the sinus infection into the ear.