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How to Open Up Your Eustachian Tube Naturally
Fluid or the accumulation of mucus can cause clogging in the eustachian tube, and it may become difficult to hear 2. A clogged ear is common with sinus infections, colds and allergies, and sufferers may deal with ear pain, pressure or tinnitus when the eustachian tube becomes blocked 2. Over-the-counter decongestants are effective for remedying this problem. But if you prefer, there are natural methods to help undo the blockage.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Grab a drink of water or chewing gum to help open the eustachian tube 2. Swallow repeatedly to promote muscular contractions and balance the air pressure in ears to unblock the eustachian tube 2. Drink a glass of water or other liquid or chew gum. Chewing gum exercises the jaw and increases the production of saliva. Do not swallow the gum.
How to Unclog the Inner Ear or Eustachian Tube
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Stretch your jaw muscles to undo blockage. Open your mouth far enough so you feel a slight stretch, but stop if it becomes painful. Yawning is another method that works the muscles in the jaw to help pop the ears and clear blockage.
Use pressure to pop your ears. Remedy a block eustachian tube by plugging your nose with your index finger and thumb, and then blowing very gently 2. This method helps pop or unclog the ears. Just be sure you don't blow too hard or you may cause damage.
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Lie on your side to drain fluid from the ear. Water in the ears from swimming or showering can block the eustachian tube 2. Tilt your head or lie down on the side with the blocked ear to drain trapped fluid from the ear.
Use steam to break up congestion caused by mucus buildup. Take a hot, steamy shower to clear mucus or use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Excess mucus is another cause of a blocked eustachian tube 2. Steam thins mucus and helps stimulate drainage.
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References
- Medline Plus: Ear Barotrauma
- MedicineNet: Eustachian Tube Problems
- Szymanski A, Agarwal A. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Ear Eustachian Tube. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Updated December 6, 2018.
- Llewellyn A, Norman G, Harden M, et al. Interventions for adult Eustachian tube dysfunction: a systematic review. Health Technol Assess. 2014;18(46):1-180, v-vi. doi:10.3310/hta18460.
- Casale J. Physiology Eustachian Tube Function. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Updated October 27, 2018.
- Smith ME, Takwoingi Y, Deeks J, et al. Eustachian tube dysfunction: A diagnostic accuracy study and proposed diagnostic pathway. PLoS ONE. 2018;13(11):e0206946. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0206946.
- Merck Manual Consumer Version. Overview of Middle Ear Infections in Young Children. Updated February 2019.
- Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center. Patulous Eustachian Tube. Updated May 21, 2016.
Writer Bio
Valencia Higuera is a freelance writer from Chesapeake, Virginia. She has contributed content to print publications and online publications such as Sidestep.com, AOL Travel, Work.com and ABC Loan Guide. Higuera primarily works as a personal finance, travel and medical writer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English/journalism from Old Dominion University.