Blocked Ear: Common Causes and How to Get Relief

Dealing with a blocked or clogged ear? Learn about the common causes, home remedies, and when you need professional help.

A blocked or clogged ear is one of the most common hearing complaints. It can cause muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness or pressure, and sometimes discomfort or pain. Understanding the cause is key to finding the right treatment.

Common causes of blocked ears

Ear wax build-up — the most common cause. Wax is natural and protective, but can accumulate and block the ear canal, particularly in people who use cotton buds (which push wax deeper) or wear hearing aids or earphones regularly.
Eustachian tube dysfunction — the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat can become blocked due to colds, allergies, or sinus infections, causing a feeling of fullness and muffled hearing.
Ear infection — middle ear infections (otitis media) can cause fluid to build up behind the eardrum, creating pressure and blockage.
Changes in pressure — flying, diving, or driving at altitude can cause ear pressure that doesn't equalise properly.
Water in the ear — trapped water after swimming or bathing can cause temporary blockage.
Foreign object — particularly in young children, small objects can become lodged in the ear canal.

Home remedies

For ear wax build-up:

Apply olive oil or sodium bicarbonate ear drops 2–3 times a day for 5–7 days
Lie on your side with the affected ear up for a few minutes to let the drops soak in
Never use cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects — these can push wax further in or damage the ear canal

For pressure-related blockage, try swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva manoeuvre (gently blowing with your nose pinched shut).

When to see a professional

See your GP or an audiologist if:

Home remedies haven't worked after a week
You have pain, discharge, or bleeding from the ear
Your hearing is significantly reduced
You have a fever alongside ear symptoms
The blockage is in one ear only and has come on suddenly

Professional ear wax removal — by microsuction or irrigation — is safe, quick, and can provide immediate relief if wax is the cause.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the fastest way to unblock an ear?

If it's caused by wax, olive oil drops used for several days often resolve the problem. For immediate relief, professional microsuction can clear wax in minutes. For pressure-related blockage, try swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva manoeuvre.

Should I use cotton buds to clean my ears?

No. Cotton buds push wax deeper into the ear canal and can damage the eardrum. The NHS advises against inserting anything into your ear canal. Ears are largely self-cleaning — wax naturally migrates outward.

When is a blocked ear a sign of something serious?

A blocked ear is usually not serious, but you should see a doctor if it's accompanied by pain, discharge, sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or fever, or if it affects only one ear and has come on suddenly.