Why do our ears pop? Are they popping more than often? Read on to learn more.
Everyone’s ears pop now and then, especially if you live in a hilly region or travel by plane often. Among the many facets of our ears, internal air pressure is one of them. The popping sensation in our ears can be completely normal or a symptom of sickness. It is ultimately a matter of understanding the cause of your popping ears, as the popping actually a good thing. “Why do my ears keep popping?” you may ask? Let’s take a closer look here.
Understanding Why Ears Pop
Our eardrums have a pocket of air that should remain at the same pressure as the ambient air. If the air pressure surrounding us changes suddenly, the air pressure in our eardrums may not change at the same rate. The Eustachian tubes control air pressure in our eardrums; they are canals connecting the eardrums to the back of the throat. Our ears, nose, and throat are all connected. The popping sensation is our Eustachian tubes adjusting the air pressure in our eardrums to match the ambient air pressure.
Reasons Your Ears Might Pop
The general reason for why our ears pop is to adjust the air pressure in our eardrums. What are situations where our ears might need to pop?
One is when rising or descending in elevation rapidly. If you are driving in hilly or mountainous regions, your ascent or descent will send you into an area with higher or lower air pressure. The higher you go, the more air pressure there will be. The same goes if you are flying in a plane. When the plane takes off or prepares for landing, you may find your ears popping. Once your ears pop, they should feel better.
Another cause of popping ears is sinus issues. The common cold, allergies, and other respiratory problems can clog up your Eustachian tubes, keeping air from the eardrum.
Need to See a Doctor or Audiologist?
You can alleviate popping ears by yawning, swallowing, and chewing gum. If the underlying cause is a respiratory illness or an allergy, contact your doctor. If you have an ear infection, an audiologist can also help you.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
You can call us today to schedule a FREE Hearing Protection Consultation at 410-698-6594! For more blog posts, news, and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.