How to Pop Ears

By eHow Health Editor

How to Pop Ears How to Pop Ears

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Traveling by plane, driving through high elevations, swimming and the common cold can cause Eustachian tubes to become blocked. The Eustachian tubes become obstructed because the pressure in the middle ear can not be equalized. This is an uncomfortable feeling and sounds are unclear and muffled. Here are a few tips to pop your ears and relieve the pressure.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Take an allergy tablet or decongestant about an hour before the descent. Nasal sprays can also be used but discontinue use afterward since these can cause more congestion by overuse.
Step2
Swallow hard. Swallowing makes the muscle that opens the Eustachian tubes begin to work. It's a good idea to practice this technique if your traveling by plane just before your take-off and landing.
Step3
Chew gum. Any change in the altitude usually causes the Eustachian tubes to close. Be prepared and carry a pack of gum. The chewing action opens the tubes and relieves pressure.
Step4
Suck on a mint or hard candy. Let a mint dissolve slowly in your mouth. The repeated swallowing will help pop your ears.
Step5
Yawn wide. Don't fall asleep unless you've had a decongestant. Your ears won't pop automatically. When you awake you'll feel like your head has been inside a pressure cooker. Yawning helps to stretch the tubes and open them up.
Step6
Pop your ears by first pinching your nostrils closed. Then, take a deep breath and hold it as you close your mouth. Finally, with your cheek and throat muscles forcefully press the air into the back of your nose. Repeat this as needed until you hear a pop sound or feel relieved.
Step7
Seek help from a doctor if the pressure won't go away. If all of these steps have been tried and your Eustachian tubes are still blocked a doctor can make a small incision in the ear drum to pop your ears for you.

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rpromjr

rpromjr said

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on 5/29/2008 Thanks! I didn't think of some of the other ways. Chewing gum and yawning almost always works for me.

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on 2/29/2008 Great ideas, I though there was only one way, I didn't know there was more than one way. This are great ideas, thanks.

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on 2/29/2008 Awesome! I do the nostril pinch one! lol! We live in the boonies and have to drive 45 minutes through mountains for pretty much EVERYTHING, so this article definitely helps!

Katie
www.BrokeWAHM.com

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eHow Article: How to Pop Ears

eHow Health Editor

eHow Health Editor

Category: Health

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