What should I do if my ear suddenly feels blocked and I experience ringing in the ear?

Sudden ear blockage accompanied by tinnitus may be caused by earwax buildup, pressure changes, secretory otitis media, external otitis, or acute otitis media. Symptoms can be improved through earwax removal, pressure regulation, or medical treatment. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by ear pain or hearing loss, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Earwax blockage: Excessive or hardened earwax can obstruct the ear canal, impairing sound conduction and causing a sensation of blockage and tinnitus, sometimes with mild hearing loss. Avoid self-cleaning with sharp objects; instead, visit a hospital where a doctor can safely remove the wax using professional tools.

2. Pressure changes: Rapid altitude changes or traveling by airplane or other vehicles can cause sudden air pressure shifts, leading to Eustachian tube dysfunction and resulting in ear blockage and tinnitus. Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum can help equalize pressure in the Eustachian tube and relieve discomfort.

3. Secretory otitis media: Eustachian tube dysfunction leads to fluid accumulation in the middle ear, causing ear blockage and tinnitus, along with ear fullness and mild hearing loss. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Cefaclor capsules, Mometasone furoate nasal spray, or Olinmax (Euryma) drops may be used to alleviate symptoms.

4. External otitis: Inflammation caused by ear scratching injuries or water entering the ear canal leads to congestion and swelling of the ear canal lining, resulting in ear blockage and tinnitus, often accompanied by ear pain and increased discharge. Under medical supervision, patients may use Ofloxacin otic solution, Cefixime granules, or Calamine lotion to relieve symptoms.

5. Acute otitis media: Middle ear inflammation caused by bacterial or viral infection results in ear blockage and tinnitus, usually accompanied by severe ear pain and fever. As directed by a physician, medications such as Amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, Paracetamol oral suspension, or Tobramycin otic solution may be used to improve symptoms.

Maintain clean and dry ear canals, avoid water entry into ears, refrain from using sharp objects for ear cleaning, follow a balanced and nutritious diet, and engage in regular exercise to strengthen overall health and reduce the occurrence of ear discomfort.