Ear Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help

Ear

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
In the past few months, I've occasionally felt a slight itch in my ears, so I used a cotton swab to clean them.
I noticed that when I touch my left ear, it produces popping sounds or sounds similar to crinkling plastic.
Any movement of the cotton swab causes these sounds, and sometimes they seem quite loud.
It feels like there is something in my ear, but I can't seem to remove anything (just the cotton swab).
I would like to ask the doctor what this might be and if I need to go to the hospital for an examination.
Additionally, I seem to experience ear pain every time I fly, and I took a flight earlier this year.

leo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/03/31

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

Please don't worry; most of these unusual sounds are caused by small earwax moving across the surface of the eardrum.
Some patients even experience this when changing body positions (such as getting out of bed).
It can be quite uncomfortable, and you can visit a specialist to have it removed.

Reply Date: 2011/03/31

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some discomfort in your ear, which can be quite bothersome. Based on your description, there are a few potential causes for the symptoms you're experiencing, and it’s important to understand them to determine whether you should seek medical attention.

Firstly, the itching sensation in your ear could be due to a variety of reasons, including dry skin, allergies, or even an ear infection. The use of cotton swabs can sometimes exacerbate the problem, as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal or irritate the skin, leading to more discomfort. The "pop" or "crinkling" sound you hear when moving the cotton swab may be related to the movement of earwax or changes in pressure within the ear canal. This is often normal, but if it is accompanied by pain or significant discomfort, it may warrant further investigation.

The pain you experience while flying is also a common issue known as "ear barotrauma." This occurs when there is a difference in pressure between the inside of your ear and the external environment, which can happen during takeoff and landing. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, helps equalize this pressure. If it is not functioning properly, it can lead to pain and discomfort. Techniques such as yawning, swallowing, or using the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose and gently blowing) can help equalize the pressure.

Given your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination of your ears to check for any signs of infection, excessive wax buildup, or other underlying issues. A hearing test may also be beneficial to assess your auditory function, especially since you mentioned discomfort during flights.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be relatively common and not necessarily indicative of a serious problem, it is always better to err on the side of caution. An ENT specialist can provide you with a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options. If you find that your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention sooner rather than later is advisable. Your ear health is important, especially considering your interest in flying, where ear pressure changes can be more pronounced. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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