Feeling your ears pop or plug is common, especially when unwell. Many wonder why this happens with illnesses like COVID-19. This sensation indicates a temporary change in ear pressure, a noticeable but usually minor symptom during a respiratory infection.
How Your Ears Pop
The sensation of ears popping relates to the function of the Eustachian tube, a narrow passageway connecting your middle ear to the back of your throat, near the nasal cavity. This tube plays a role in equalizing air pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment. Normally, the Eustachian tube opens briefly when you swallow, yawn, or chew, allowing small amounts of air to enter or exit the middle ear, which balances the pressure.
When middle ear pressure doesn’t match outside pressure, your eardrum can’t vibrate properly. This leads to fullness, muffled sounds, or popping. This imbalance is common during altitude changes, like flying or driving through mountains. The Eustachian tube also helps drain fluid from the middle ear and protects it from nasal drainage.
Why COVID-19 Can Cause Ear Popping
COVID-19, like other respiratory infections, can directly affect the Eustachian tube, leading to dysfunction and the sensation of ear popping. The virus can cause inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages and throat, where the Eustachian tube connects. This inflammation and mucus production can block or impair the tube’s ability to open and close effectively.
When the Eustachian tube becomes blocked, middle ear air pressure cannot equalize, causing fullness or pressure. This can also lead to muffled hearing or discomfort. Ear pressure and pain have been reported with COVID-19 variants, especially those affecting the upper respiratory tract.
Relieving Ear Pressure and When to Seek Medical Advice
To alleviate ear pressure, several actions can encourage the Eustachian tubes to open. Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum are simple ways to activate the muscles that help open the tubes. A gentle Valsalva maneuver can also be effective: take a deep breath, pinch your nostrils closed, and gently blow out with your mouth shut. This action can help equalize pressure, but it is important to perform it gently to avoid harm.
Over-the-counter remedies like decongestants or nasal sprays can provide relief by reducing nasal inflammation and congestion, which helps the Eustachian tubes. Applying a warm compress over the ear can ease discomfort and promote fluid drainage. Staying well-hydrated helps thin mucus, further reducing congestion. Always consult a healthcare provider before using medications, especially if you have other health conditions.
You should seek medical advice if your ear symptoms persist or worsen significantly after your main COVID-19 illness resolves. Signs that warrant a doctor’s visit include:
Severe ear pain
Discharge from the ear
Persistent hearing loss
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Dizziness or balance problems
These symptoms could indicate a secondary ear infection or another underlying issue requiring professional evaluation and treatment, such as antibiotics or ventilation tubes to drain fluid.