What causes sudden ear blockage?
Apr 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
A sudden feeling of ear fullness may be caused by a large buildup of earwax in the ear canal that has not been cleaned in time; symptoms can be improved by timely removal of the earwax. It could also result from a perforated eardrum due to ear trauma. Small perforations may be monitored conservatively, while larger ones require prompt surgical repair. Additionally, inflammation caused by fungal infection in the external auditory canal may be responsible; this can be treated with topical clotrimazole ear drops.
A sudden feeling of ear fullness may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions, such as trauma or fungal external otitis.
I. Physiological Factors
If a large cerumen (earwax) plug is present in the ear canal and not promptly removed, water entering the ear during bathing or swimming can cause the cerumen to swell, leading to a sensation of blockage. Symptoms usually improve once the earwax is properly cleaned from the ear canal.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Trauma
Ear trauma resulting in a perforated eardrum can also cause a sudden sensation of ear fullness. If the perforation is small, it may be monitored conservatively; avoid getting water in the ear during this time to prevent infection. For larger perforations, timely surgical repair of the eardrum (tympanoplasty) is necessary to promote healing and relieve symptoms.
2. Fungal External Otitis
This condition occurs when the external ear canal becomes infected with fungi, causing inflammation. Treatment typically involves topical antifungal medications, such as terbinafine spray, boric acid and borneol ear drops, or clotrimazole ear drops, used under medical supervision to control the fungal infection and alleviate symptoms.
In addition, sudden sensorineural hearing loss could also be a possible cause. If accompanied by tinnitus, dizziness, or other discomforts, a detailed evaluation at a hospital is recommended to determine the underlying cause.
