How can i pop my ear?

• is there anything i can do to pop my ear. its been clogged for some time now. i try to cover my nose and blow but that seeems not to work with me. im chewing gum right as we speak and ...show more

• Answer:

  First thing- stop trying to pop your ears by plugging your nose and blowing air out your ears. This is called the valsalva manuever and a prolonged effort can cause venous engorgement of the tissues around the Eustachian tubes. It also causes a decrease in venous return to the heart and can lower blood pressure if the effort is prolonged. Your best bet is to start taking some decongestants such as Sudafed. Make sure you follow the directions on the box and increase your water intake. Try letting some warm soapy water run into your ear canal while you shower. Pull down on your earlobe and lean slightly forward while yawning to remove any residual water in your ears. Do NOT put Qtips into your ears- this will just push any wax or infection farther into your ear, and you run the risk of rupturing your eardrum. Qtips are used for cleaning the OUTER ear canal only!! You need to schedule an appointment with your doctor to have your inner ear looked at. It sound like your infection is still present, and possibly worse. Make sure you take ALL of your medication even if you start to feel better