Ear feels partially clogged - any ideas?

abbyful

For a couple months now, my right ear feels partially clogged. It doesn't affect my hearing or balance, but it's like there's an annoying swishing off-and-on.

Any ideas how to clear it without having to go to a doctor? I've put drops of peroxide in it, which hasn't helped. I'm thinking of getting an aspirator and trying to flush it out.

MeginUT

I've tried all sorts of do-it-yourself and homeopathic remedies for wax build-up, and the only thing that helps is those kits with carbamide peroxide.  It's listed as category C, which I always interpret as, take only if you really have to if you're pregnant.  I'd ask your doctor.  One time when I got a build-up really bad, I went to a walk in clinic and a nurse flushed it out for me. It would probably be worth it.   I'd worry about doing too much flushing myself without knowing what harm I could be doing.  Even if the liquid isn't bad for the baby, you might be damaging the ear.  

saraboston

Have you tried Debrox drops? It comes with a little kit and is sold OTC. Otherwise, why not ask the OB or nurse next time you have an appointment. I know it's not their "area", but I'm sure it was taught in med school.

hannafemme

I am an audiologist, and what you are describing does not sound like an earwax build-up, but more of an issue with your eustachian tube.  This is common with hormonal changes i.e. pregnancy and post-partum.  Mine is even effected during my period, and it always gets worse during or just after exercise.

A few suggestions you can try a nasal spray or neti-pot which could help relieve any pressure on your eustachian tube.  It is not typically dangerous, just annoying.

HTH.

Jenm0709

hannafemme:

I am an audiologist, and what you are describing does not sound like an earwax build-up, but more of an issue with your eustachian tube.  This is common with hormonal changes i.e. pregnancy and post-partum.  Mine is even effected during my period, and it always gets worse during or just after exercise.

A few suggestions you can try a nasal spray or neti-pot which could help relieve any pressure on your eustachian tube.  It is not typically dangerous, just annoying.

HTH.

This happened to me with pregnancy #3. It now just kind of comes and goes. 

Jenm0709

hannafemme:

I am an audiologist, and what you are describing does not sound like an earwax build-up, but more of an issue with your eustachian tube.  This is common with hormonal changes i.e. pregnancy and post-partum.  Mine is even effected during my period, and it always gets worse during or just after exercise.

A few suggestions you can try a nasal spray or neti-pot which could help relieve any pressure on your eustachian tube.  It is not typically dangerous, just annoying.

HTH.

This happened to me with pregnancy #3. It now just kind of comes and goes.