The sensation of hearing internal clicking, popping, or crackling sounds originates within the head or ears rather than from an external source. This auditory experience, known as tinnitus when persistent, is frequently caused by mechanical issues within or near the ear structure. While the perception of these sounds can be unsettling, these issues are usually temporary and benign. Understanding the specific source of the noise can help demystify this phenomenon.
Clicking Caused by Middle Ear Muscle Spasms
A distinct, rapid clicking or tapping sensation in the ear may originate from involuntary spasms of tiny muscles located within the middle ear. This condition is medically referred to as middle ear myoclonus, involving either the tensor tympani or the stapedius muscle. The tensor tympani attaches to the malleus bone and helps dampen loud sounds by increasing the tension of the eardrum.
When the tensor tympani muscle spasms, the resulting sound can be a rapid, rhythmic clicking or fluttering that may sometimes be loud enough to be heard by others, classifying it as objective tinnitus. Similarly, the stapedius muscle, attached to the stapes bone, protects the inner ear from loud noises by pulling the stapes away from the oval window. Spasms in this muscle can also produce an internal clicking or thumping noise.
These muscle contractions are typically erratic and involuntary. The sound generated by these spasms is often described as feeling like a tiny drum beating inside the ear.
Noise Related to Eustachian Tube Function
Another common source of internal auditory noise relates to the functionality of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. The primary function of this passage is to regulate air pressure within the middle ear, ensuring it matches the pressure outside the body. This pressure equalization process occurs when the tube briefly opens, often triggered by actions such as swallowing, yawning, or chewing.
When the Eustachian tube is obstructed or inflamed, a condition known as Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) occurs, which can be caused by colds, sinus infections, or allergies. Fluid or mucus accumulation prevents the tube from opening and closing correctly, leading to an imbalance in air pressure. The resulting sound is typically described as a popping, crackling, or muffled sensation, especially when attempting to clear the ears.
A separate but related issue is a patulous Eustachian tube, where the tube remains abnormally open. This condition can cause the person to hear their own breathing or voice resonating loudly in the ear, a phenomenon called autophony.
Sounds Originating from the Jaw Joint
The perception of a clicking sound in the ear may not originate from the ear structures, but rather from the nearby temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint acts like a sliding hinge, connecting the jawbone to the skull. Problems with this joint, collectively known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), frequently result in auditory symptoms.
The clicking or popping sound is often a mechanical noise produced by the displacement or improper movement of the articular disc that cushions the joint. When the jaw moves, this disc may slip out of its normal position and then rapidly snap back into place, creating the audible click. This noise is almost always triggered by movement, such as opening the mouth wide, chewing, or speaking.
Because of the anatomical proximity of the TMJ to the ear, the brain interprets the joint noise as originating inside the ear canal. TMJ-related clicking is typically felt in conjunction with jaw movement. The noise may also be accompanied by pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or neck muscles.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation
While most causes of ear clicking are minor and resolve on their own, certain accompanying signs suggest the need for a medical evaluation. If the clicking noise is persistent, does not improve over several weeks, or is consistently unilateral (occurring in only one ear), a consultation with an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) is recommended. Professionals can determine the exact cause and rule out more serious underlying conditions.
The presence of other symptoms alongside the clicking noise warrants prompt attention. These include sudden or progressive hearing loss, especially if it occurs only in the ear experiencing the noise. Chronic dizziness or vertigo should be immediately evaluated.
A specific type of noise called pulsatile tinnitus, which sounds like rhythmic whooshing or thumping that aligns with the heartbeat, indicates a vascular issue, such as changes in blood flow near the ear. If the clicking is clearly related to jaw movement and accompanied by significant pain or difficulty chewing, a dentist or oral surgeon specializing in TMD may be the appropriate professional to consult first.