How Does Air Pressure Cause Ear Popping?
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Air Pressure Imbalances
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The main cause of air pressure-related ear popping is an imbalance between the pressure within the ear and the pressure outside of the ear. Anytime there is a huge disparity between the two air pressures, the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, expands or contracts in an effort to help equalize the pressures. This contraction or expansion causes a popping or crackling sound in the ears.
Inner Ear Fluid and Air Pressure Changes
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In addition to air pressure within the ears, there is a substantial amount of inner ear fluid that contributes to the ear popping experienced. The inner ear fluid is delicate and responds to the slightest pressure differences. If the fluid is influenced to push up against the eardrum, by air pressure differences or by mechanical or positional changes, a popping or crackling sound can occur.
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Blocked Eustachian Tube
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The Eustachian tube, which is a long, slender tube connecting the back of the throat to the inner ear, has a role in the popping by causing the inner ear fluid and inner air pressure to build up and push against the ear drum, which in turn causes the crackling sound. This happens when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked because of colds or infections of the ear and/or throat, which can change the air pressure dynamic within the inner ear.
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