Why does my ear feel swollen and painful after running, and what should I do about it?
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Ear fullness and pain after running may be caused by improper breathing techniques, airflow冲击 on the external auditory canal during running, flare-up of external otitis, secretory otitis media, or earwax impaction. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medications, or other methods. Before daily runs, perform proper warm-up exercises and choose suitable routes to avoid exposure to dust and other irritants.
Generally, ear fullness and pain after running may be caused by improper breathing techniques, airflow冲击 on the external auditory canal during running, flare-up of external otitis, secretory otitis media, or cerumen impaction. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, or other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Improper breathing technique: Breathing heavily through the mouth while running can allow air to enter the pharynx but fail to smoothly pass through the Eustachian tube to equalize middle ear pressure, leading to ear fullness and pain. Adjust your breathing rhythm to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth, slow down your pace while running, and gently pinch your nose and blow to help open the Eustachian tube and balance pressure.
2. Airflow冲击 on the external auditory canal: During running, rapid airflow rushes into the external auditory canal—especially when running against the wind—increasing pressure that irritates the ear canal mucosa and causes discomfort. This is more common among those who wear in-ear earplugs. Consider switching to loose, breathable earmuffs instead of in-ear plugs, slightly lower your head when running against the wind to reduce direct airflow impact, and gently wipe the outer ear with warm water after running.
3. Flare-up of external otitis: Bacterial infection due to damaged skin in the external auditory canal can lead to inflammation. Sweat entering the ear canal during running worsens irritation, resulting in pain accompanied by redness and swelling. Patients should use medications such as ofloxacin otic solution, lomefloxacin hydrochloride otic solution, or cefaclor capsules as prescribed by a physician.
4. Secretory otitis media: Dysfunction of the Eustachian tube leads to fluid accumulation in the middle ear. Body vibrations during running cause this fluid to move and stimulate the mucosa, resulting in ear fullness and pain, sometimes accompanied by mild hearing loss. Medications such as eucalyptus citronellol enteric soft capsules, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or mometasone furoate nasal spray may be used as directed to promote fluid drainage.
5. Cerumen impaction: Accumulated earwax hardens into a block within the ear canal; vibrations from running cause this block to press against the canal wall, causing pain and potentially affecting hearing in severe cases. Medical consultation is required for removal using a cerumen hook or external ear canal irrigation. Avoid self-cleaning, which may push wax deeper and worsen impaction.
Before regular running, perform proper warm-up exercises and choose suitable routes to avoid exposure to dust and strong winds. Maintain a light diet, reduce intake of spicy foods, and keep the ear canals clean.
