The Facts

• "Plugged" ear results from an obstruction in the eustachian tubes, which connect the outer and middle ear. In addition to functioning in draining mucus from the outer ear, these tubes help to equalize the pressure between the outer and inner ear. Ideally these pressures should be the same, and the popping noise heard on an airplane or elevator is the eustachian tubes correcting the discrepancy. In addition, the pressure can be manually equalized when yawning or swallowing, since that opens up the tubes further. So, an obstruction in the eustachian tubes means the pressure cannot be equalized, resulting in "plugged" ear, or eustachian tube dysfunction.
  
  

Causes

• The causes of eustachian tube dysfunction vary, but most common explanations are an allergic reaction, the cold or influenza or a drastic change in pressure. In addition, other causes include migraines, jaw joint disturbances or even Maniere's disease.
  
  

Symptoms

• The primary symptoms of eustachian tube dysfunction are the muffling of sounds, since the high pressure on the inner ear disrupts the vibrations of the ear drum. In addition, the increased pressure might result in an earache until the pressure is cleared.
  
  

Treatment

• The treatment for eustachian tube dysfunction is to clear the disturbance causing the discrepancy between the inner and outer ear pressure. This can be accomplished with a variety of products, like oral decongestants or nasal sprays, or simply by closing the nose and mouth and trying to blow.
  
  

Warning

• If the symptoms do not go away over time or with treatment, see an otolaryngologist, or an ear-nose-throat doctor. A long-term dysfunction could be a sign of a much more serious problem, such as a skull base tumor.