How do you unblock a blocked ear?

A mild blocked ear often eases as its cause settles. Everyday actions such as swallowing or yawning can help the Eustachian tube equalise ear pressure, a warm compress may ease cold-related congestion, and gentle softening drops can help if ear wax is the cause. Avoid forcefully trying to "pop" your ear or putting anything into the ear canal. Because a blocked ear can have several causes, the safest step is to have it checked, especially if it is painful, discharging, or your hearing has dropped.

What can ease a mild blocked ear?

• Swallowing, yawning or chewing gum can help the Eustachian tube open and equalise ear pressure.
• A warm compress held against the outer ear may ease discomfort if the blockage is linked to a cold or congestion.
• Gentle softening drops, such as olive oil, can help if ear wax is the cause; see our safe home ear cleaning guide.
• Avoid forcefully trying to "pop" your ear, and never insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal, as this can cause damage.

This is general information about mild, recent blockages, not a treatment plan. Persistent, painful or worsening symptoms need a professional check.

Why does my ear feel muffled but there is no wax?

A muffled ear without wax is often due to Eustachian tube dysfunction, where the tube that equalises ear pressure gets blocked by a cold, allergies or sinus congestion. Fluid behind the eardrum, or sudden hearing changes, can also be responsible. If it persists more than a few days, get it checked rather than waiting it out.

Can flying or diving cause a blocked ear?

Yes. Rapid pressure changes during flying or diving can affect the Eustachian tube's ability to equalise pressure, causing a temporary blocked feeling. Swallowing, yawning or specialised earplugs designed for flying can help. If the blocked feeling persists well after the flight or dive, have it checked.

What are the common causes of a blocked ear (wax, Eustachian tube)?

• Ear wax build-up, often cleared with micro-suction
• Eustachian tube dysfunction from a cold, allergies, ear infection or sinus congestion
• Fluid behind the eardrum
• Pressure changes, such as from flying or diving
• Less commonly, sudden hearing loss, which needs urgent assessment

When should you see an audiologist for a blocked ear?

If simple steps do not help within a day or two, if you have pain, discharge, dizziness or a sudden drop in hearing, or if the blockage keeps recurring, book an appointment rather than continuing to self-manage.

For more information, visit Healthdirect (healthdirect.gov.au) (opens in a new tab).

Sources: Healthdirect; Mayo Clinic. Information current July 2026 and general in nature.