Introduction
Ear blockage is a common problem that can be both frustrating and painful. It can make you feel dizzy, affect your hearing and cause discomfort. Unclogging your ears can be a simple process, but it is crucial to understand the causes of blockage first. In this article, we will cover five effective natural remedies, discuss the reasons why your ears get clogged, and provide tips on ear hygiene and the consequences of not taking care of blockage issues promptly. Lastly, we will introduce yoga poses and acupressure points that may help unclog your ears.
Natural Remedies to Unclog Ears: 5 Effective Ways
There are natural remedies you can use to unclog your ears. Here are five effective ways to try:
Use of Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural cabinet staple with many benefits for your health, skin, and hair. It is also effective for ear blockage treatment. Heat some olive oil and let it cool to room temperature. Lay down on one side and use a dropper to put three drops of warm olive oil in each ear. Stay in that position for 10-15 minutes. Then stand up and tilt your head to the side, allowing the oil to flow out of your ear.
Hot Water Remedy
The hot water remedy is another simple solution to try. Boil some water and put it in a bowl. Put your face above the bowl, covering your head with a towel so that the steam does not escape. The steam will go into your blocked ears, which can help them unclog. The steam should warm and moisturize the earwax, making it easier to remove. Repeat this process several times a day, and you should feel relief in a few hours.
Garlic Oil Drops
Garlic has antimicrobial properties that may help support good ear health. You can make garlic oil by adding a piece of garlic in olive oil and heating it for a few minutes. Use a dropper to put three to four drops of garlic oil in each ear. Leave the solution in for a few minutes and then tilt your head to the side to drain the excess oil. The natural ingredients in garlic can help soften earwax, so it becomes easier to extract.
Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Hydrogen peroxide, a common antiseptic, can also help break up earwax. Mix equal parts of peroxide and water and put a few drops into your ear. Wait five minutes and then tilt your head to drain the liquid. This will help loosen the earwax so that it comes out easily.
Valasalva Maneuver
The Valasalva maneuver is a technique that can also help to unclog your ears. Close your mouth and pinch your nose, then gently breathe out. This increases the pressure in your inner ear, which can help to pop your ears and brighten up sounds. Repeat the process several times daily until the clog is relieved.
Why Do Your Ears Get Clogged and How to Fix It?
Understanding why your ears get clogged can help to prevent the recurrence of ear blockages and vice versa. Here are some common reasons and associated treatment options:
Wax Buildup
Wax buildup is the most common cause of blocked ears. Earwax is produced to protect your ear from dust and bacteria, but too much can lead to a blockage. Try ear drops, olive oil or hydrogen peroxide mixtures to soften and eliminate accumulated earwax effectively. If the problem persists, seek medical attention.
Changes in Altitude
Changes in altitude can affect your ears, causing them to feel clogged. When you get on a plane or drive to an area at a higher altitude, your ears might feel blocked. To fix this, try chewing gum, swallowing frequently, or yawning on your journey, which can help to balance the air pressure in your ears.
Sinus Infections
Sinus infections can cause inflammation in the nose, leading to ear blockages. In this case, treat the underlying issue with nasal decongestants, antibiotics or other prescribed treatments. Relieving the swelling in your nose can open your ear passages as well.
Ear Hygiene: The Do’s and Don’ts
Maintaining healthy ears is crucial for overall ear health, and hygiene is a critical factor in achieving this. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts for ear hygiene:
Avoiding Cotton Swabs (Q-tips)
Cotton swabs are the most common tool people use to clean their ears. However, they are not recommended. Using cotton buds or any other objects to clean your ear can push earwax further inside, causing more blockages and possibly injuring your eardrum. The ear canal is self-cleaning and, in most cases, does not require outside cleaning.
Using Ear Drops
Ear drops are ideal for preventing earwax build-up, reducing the risk of blockage. They soften the earwax, allowing it to drain spontaneously. Use ear drops once a week as part of your hygiene routine to maintain clean ears.
General Dos and Don’ts for Ear Cleaning
Keep your ears dry to prevent infections, dryness, and itchiness, which may lead to blockage. If you go swimming, put on earplugs or a shower cap to avoid water getting into your ear canal. Seek medical attention if you experience recurring, painful, or sudden hearing loss or any other associated symptoms.
What Happens When You Don’t Unclog Your Ears and How to Fix It?
It is essential to fix your ear clog as soon as you notice it. Failure to do so may lead to complications such as:
Ear Infections
Ear infections are a common problem that can arise from untreated ear blocks. If the blockage is caused by a bacterial infection, the bacteria may spread to your inner ear, resulting in an infection. Treat the ear block as soon as possible or seek medical attention to avoid these complications.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound inside your ears. In some cases, it is caused by a blockage, and clearing the blockage can reduce the symptoms. To get rid of tinnitus associated with clogged ears, try the natural remedies listed above or seek medical consultation.
Home Remedies for Unclogging Ears
Some home remedies may help unclog ears. Applying heat on the affected ear, gargling with saltwater, massaging around your ear, or trying the Valsalva maneuver may be effective in providing relief to your clogged ears.
Yoga Poses to Help Unclog Your Ears
Yoga is known for its many health benefits, including stress relief, improved flexibility, and enhanced mental clarity. Some yoga asanas (poses) may help unclog your ears. Try these simple poses:
King Pigeon Pose
This pose helps to open up the neck and shoulder muscles, which connect to the ears, promoting blood circulation in the region.
Child’s Pose
This pose improves blood flow and reduces muscle tension, perfect for easing the pressure that causes ear clogs.
Downward Dog
This pose relaxes the neck and spinal muscles, improving oxygen and blood flow to the ears. It can help to reduce inflammation and relieve blockages.
Acupressure Points to Clear the Blockage in Your Ears
Acupressure therapy is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment method that involves applying pressure to particular points of the body. Applying pressure to certain points near the ears can help to relieve blockage. Here are some points you try with these steps:
Small Intestine 19 (SI19)
SI19 is located near the ear lobes. Place your fingers on the smooth area just in front of the earlobe, and push gently upwards towards the ear.
Gallbladder 20 (GB20)
GB20 is located at the back of the neck, where the neck meets the skull. Apply firm pressure to the area using your thumb and middle finger.
Conclusion
Clogged ears can be uncomfortable, but they are generally easy to treat. Through natural remedies, understanding the causes of blockage, and maintaining good hygiene, you can prevent and clear blockages easily. While there are home remedies you can try, recurrent ear blocks and complications require professional attention. Yoga poses and acupressure points can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, potentially loosening earwax.