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The sensation of pressure in the ear is something relatively common that tends to appear when there is a change in atmospheric pressure, such as when traveling by plane, when diving or when climbing a hill, for example.
Although it can be quite uncomfortable, most of the time, this feeling of pressure is not dangerous and will end in a few minutes. However, there are some techniques that can also be tried to unclog the ear more quickly and relieve discomfort. If the ear is clogged with water, see the step-by-step to get the water out of the ear.
Regardless of the technique it is very important that they are done carefully, since the ear is a very sensitive structure. In addition, if the discomfort does not improve, if it gets worse, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe pain or pus output, it is very important to consult an ENT to identify the cause and start the most appropriate treatment.
1. Yawning a few times
Yawning helps the air move within the ear canals, balancing the pressure and unclogging the ear.
To do this, just imitate the movement of yawning with your mouth and looking at the sky. It is normal that during the yawn, a small crack is heard inside the ear, which indicates that it is decompressing. If this does not happen, the process should be repeated for a few minutes.
If you find it difficult to yawn unwillingly, a good way to imitate the movement is to open your mouth as wide as possible and then breathe through your mouth, breathing in and out.
2. Chewing gum
Chewing gum moves several muscles in the face and can help to re-balance the pressure within the ear canals.
This technique is quite simple and can be used not only to unclog the ear, but also to prevent the ear from getting pinched during an airplane trip, for example.
3. Drink water
Drinking water is another way to move your face muscles and balance the pressure inside your ears.
To do this, you should put water in your mouth, hold your nose and then swallow, tilting your head back. The movement of the muscles, together with the shortness of breath entering the nose, will change the pressure inside the ear, correcting the sensation of pressure.
4. Hold the air
Another way to open the ear canals and balance the pressure that causes the compression is to take a deep breath, cover your nose with your hand and try to breathe out through your nose, while holding your nose.
5. Apply a warm compress
This technique works best when the pressure in the ear is caused by a flu or allergy, but it can also be experienced in other situations. Simply place a warm compress over your ear and leave for 2 to 3 minutes.
The heat from the compress helps to dilate the ear canals, allowing them to drain and balancing the pressure.
How to unclog the ear with wax
To unclog the ear that has wax, let the water run into and out of the ear during the bath and then wipe with a towel. However, cotton swabs should not be used, as they can push the wax further into the ear, increasing the risk of infections.
When this procedure is performed 3 times and the ear is still clogged, the otorhinolaryngologist should be consulted, as professional cleaning may be necessary.
Learn more about earwax removal.
When to go to the doctor
Although most cases of pressure in the ear can be treated at home, there are some situations that should be evaluated by the doctor. Therefore, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist or go to the hospital when:
- The pressure sensation does not improve after a few hours or worsens over time;
- There is a fever;
- Other symptoms appear, such as severe pain or pus coming out of the ear.
In these cases, the discomfort may be caused by ear infections or even a ruptured eardrum and, therefore, the guidance of a doctor is very important.