Ear Congestion and Popping Sounds After Swimming

Q: Ear Congestion and Popping Sounds After Swimming

Hello： The common issue is still related to the function of the Eustachian tube, but problems in the outer ear, middle ear, or inner ear can also cause a feeling of ear fullness or pressure. <br>It is recommended to seek medical evaluation if there is no improvement. <br>Wishing

Ear fullness with popping sounds?

Since last month, after finishing swimming lessons at school, I've been feeling a sensation of fullness in my ears.
During class, water got into my ears, and although I tried to drain it out, I still feel discomfort (not pain).
One night, after I burped, I heard a sound in my left ear that resembled the flapping of wings, which stopped after about five seconds.
I felt scared at that moment, but I don't know why.
Recently, I've also been experiencing frequent itching in my ears, and sometimes when I burp, I hear a popping sound in my left ear.
If I don't burp, I don't hear the popping sound, but I still feel a sensation of fullness in my ears, as if the structures inside are constricting, although I can still hear.
Last summer, I also had a period where my ears felt full, and my mom took me to a clinic.
The doctor said my ears looked fine and that it might be an issue with my Eustachian tube.
He prescribed medication, but I felt worse after taking it, so I stopped on my own, and eventually, the sensation went away.
I also didn't experience any pain while flying.
I'm wondering if the gas from my burps is irritating my ears, causing the popping sound, or if there's an issue with my Eustachian tube that is causing the fullness in my ears again?

Ballet, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/19

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: The common issue is still related to the function of the Eustachian tube, but problems in the outer ear, middle ear, or inner ear can also cause a feeling of ear fullness or pressure.
It is recommended to seek medical evaluation if there is no improvement.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/05/19

More Info

Experiencing ear congestion and popping sounds after swimming can be quite unsettling, especially when accompanied by sensations like itching or a feeling of fullness in the ear. Based on your description, it seems that you are dealing with a common issue related to the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This tube plays a crucial role in equalizing ear pressure and draining fluid from the middle ear.
When you swim, water can enter the ear canal, and if it doesn't drain properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. This sensation can be exacerbated by activities that change pressure in the body, such as yawning, swallowing, or even hiccupping, which may explain the popping sounds you hear when you hiccup. The sound you described, similar to wings flapping, could be the Eustachian tube opening and closing as it attempts to equalize pressure in the ear.

The itching sensation you experience could also be related to moisture trapped in the ear canal, which can create an environment conducive to irritation or even infection. It's important to avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal, as this can push wax deeper or irritate the skin, potentially leading to further issues.

Given your history of ear discomfort and the previous doctor's assessment that suggested Eustachian tube dysfunction, it is likely that your symptoms are related to this condition. Eustachian tube dysfunction can occur for various reasons, including allergies, colds, sinus infections, or even anatomical variations. When the Eustachian tube does not open properly, it can lead to a buildup of pressure and fluid in the middle ear, resulting in the sensations you are experiencing.

Here are some recommendations for managing your symptoms:
1. Yawning and Swallowing: These actions can help open the Eustachian tube and equalize pressure. Chewing gum or sucking on candy can also promote swallowing.

2. Valsalva Maneuver: This technique involves taking a deep breath, pinching your nose, and gently blowing while keeping your mouth closed. This can help equalize pressure in the ears.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and promote drainage.

4. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear may help alleviate discomfort.

5. Avoid Irritants: If allergies are a concern, try to minimize exposure to allergens and consider using antihistamines if appropriate.

6. Consult an ENT Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend treatments such as nasal corticosteroids or other medications to help reduce inflammation and improve Eustachian tube function.

7. Monitor for Infection: If you experience increased pain, fever, or discharge from the ear, seek medical attention promptly, as these could be signs of an ear infection.

In conclusion, while your symptoms are likely related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, it is essential to monitor your condition and seek medical advice if necessary. Understanding the underlying mechanisms can help alleviate anxiety about the sensations you are experiencing and guide you toward effective management strategies. Remember, while discomfort can be distressing, many cases resolve with time and appropriate care.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions for Swimmers

Since the day before yesterday, after swimming, my left ear has been experiencing a noticeable decrease in sound, similar to having earplugs in. However, yesterday when I went to karaoke with my classmates, it cleared up. Unfortunately, this morning when I woke up, it was blocked...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, common causes of ear canal blockage may be earwax impaction or fungal infection, which can worsen symptoms due to swelling after water exposure. It is recommended to visit an otolaryngology clinic or hospital for examination and treatment. Wishing you safety and health. Si...

How to Handle Bubble Sounds in Your Ear After Swimming?

After swimming, if you hear a popping sound in your right ear when you move your head up and down the next day, what should you do?

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
It is recommended to visit the otolaryngology outpatient clinic for a physical examination, and if necessary, to undergo a hearing test. Thank you.

Feeling of Ear Congestion After Diving: Causes and Solutions

I previously went snorkeling and got water in my left ear. After the water drained out, my ear felt blocked. I saw a doctor who said there was some inflammation, and after using ear drops and taking medication, there was no improvement. Two weeks later, I visited another doctor w...

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
If you experience a feeling of fullness in your ears after swimming or snorkeling, the most common causes are earwax swelling due to moisture blocking the ear canal or inflammation of the external auditory canal. Of course, there may be other reasons as well. It is advisable to c...

Understanding Ear Congestion and Popping Sounds: Causes and Treatments

One day in October, after taking a shower, I noticed my ears felt clogged. The next day, I went to a clinic for an examination. The doctor looked into my ears and nose and said it was due to Eustachian tube dysfunction. They prescribed medication, but it didn't help much. I ...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, mountain climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. 2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss. 3) ...