Falmouth: 508-548-8123
Dartmouth: 508-910-2221
Centerville: 508-862-0255
Fall River: 508-674-3334
Take care of your hearing health by understanding what caused your clogged ears, finding effective ways to take care of the blockage, and knowing when to visit your friendly neighborhood audiologist for a professional cleaning fix.

How to Unclog Blocked Ears: The Most Effective Solutions

05/07/2025 | Earwax, Patient Resources

Experiencing clogged ears can significantly interfere with your daily life, affecting your hearing, balance, and overall comfort. Whether it’s due to earwax buildup, air pressure changes, or an ear infection, finding an effective solution is crucial.  

Take care of your hearing health by understanding what caused your clogged ears, finding effective ways to take care of the blockage, and knowing when to visit your friendly neighborhood audiologist for a professional cleaning fix. 

Understanding the Causes of Blocked Ears 

Blocked ears can stem from various issues. Identifying the underlying cause of your blocked ears is essential for choosing the right approach to address the problem effectively. 

  • Earwax Buildup: A natural production, excess wax can harden and block the ear canal, leading to discomfort and hearing issues. 
  • Fluid Accumulation: Often resulting from colds or sinus infections, fluid behind the eardrum can create pressure and blockage. 
  • Changes in Air Pressure: Rapid altitude changes, such as during flights, can block your Eustachian tubes, resulting in discomfort. 

Over-the-Counter Remedies 

There are several over-the-counter solutions designed to address blocked ears, focusing primarily on reducing earwax or alleviating sinus-related pressure. 

Ear Drops:

Drops containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are effective at softening earwax, which makes it easier for your body to expel the wax naturally. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure safe use.

Decongestants and Antihistamines:

Especially helpful if your blocked ears result from sinus congestion, these medications can reduce swelling in your nasal passages and open up the Eustachian tubes.

Nasal Sprays:

Saline nasal sprays can hydrate and clear mucus, relieving pressure that may contribute to ear blockage.

At-Home Remedies and Techniques 

If you prefer natural solutions or want to supplement OTC medications, consider these at-home remedies to address clogged ears. 

  • Warm Compress: Applying a warm, moist cloth against your ear can help alleviate pressure and promote fluid drainage. 
  • Olive Oil Drops: A few drops of warmed olive oil in your ear can facilitate wax removal. Just tilt your head to let the oil settle in before draining it out. 
  • Hot Water and Steam: Steam can open up your Eustachian tubes and help loosen blockages; try a humidifier, a hot shower, or holding your face over (not in!) a hot bowl of water with a towel over your head to trap steam. 
  • Chewing Gum or Gently Using Your Jaw Muscles: Simple activities stimulate the Eustachian tubes, frequently providing the pressure changes needed to unclog your ears. 

Professional Earwax Removal Services 

When DIY solutions aren’t sufficient, professional ear care should be your next step. You can rely on our specialized, safe, and effective earwax removal services tailored to your needs. 

Benefits of Professional Services 

  • Expert Evaluation: Our trained specialists examine your ears to determine the best course of treatment, ensuring your hearing health is managed correctly. 
  • Safe Removal Techniques: Using state-of-the-art tools, we provide professional ear cleaning services that prevent damage and efficiently remove stubborn blockages. 
  • Personalized Care: We go beyond addressing immediate symptoms, offering solutions that improve your overall ear health and prevent future complications. 

Get Your Ears Clean and Clear Today! 

Improving and maintaining your ear health should be approached with care to avoid complications.

Refrain from using cotton swabs or similar objects, which can damage your ears. Persistent blockages should always be evaluated by a professional to ensure your comfort and health. 

By exploring these remedies and seeking professional advice when necessary, you can effectively manage and prevent clogged ears, leading to enhanced hearing and comfort.  

Reach out to us today for an expert consultation and take the first step toward optimal ear health! 

Ear Cleaning Appointment

Do you know somebody that needs to see this? Why not share it?

Nancy Duncan, Au.D.

Dr. Nancy Duncan graduated from Somerset High, Somerset, MA in 1991 and received her B.S. in communication disorders and psychology from Worcester State College. Her master of science in audiology was awarded at the University of Arkansas in 1997, after which she worked for several private audiology practices in Arkansas, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Returning to the area in 2003, Dr. Duncan founded Duncan Hearing Healthcare, allowing her to apply her passion to her community through rehabilitative audiology and individual patient care. She earned her clinical doctorate in audiology degree from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (now Salus University) in 2005. Her passion for her family and community is an integral part of what drives her to provide trustworthy, professional hearing healthcare to her patients.

    Request a Callback

    Would you like to speak to one of our hearing care professionals to discuss your hearing health challenges? Then simply complete this form and we’ll call you back.

    • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.