Why Do Ears Pop Without Elevation?

The middle ear is connected to your nose and throat by the eustachian tube, which balances the air pressure between the outside and your middle ear. Unequal air pressure causes pain or damage (ear barotrauma). When flying or at high altitudes, you can hear a popping noise in your ears as the tube equalizes the pressure. There are, however, other causes of ear popping.

Diving

• Diving creates the same problem as high altitudes because the pressure outside is not the same as in your middle ear. Therefore, you hear popping as the eustachian tube works to balance the pressure.

Barotrauma

• If the eustachian tube is clogged, it cannot keep air pressure equalized. The attempts by the tubes to equalize create popping. Some reasons for blockage are wax, a tumor, enlarged adenoids, an injury, swelling in the throat or a condition you had at birth.

Congestion

• If you have allergies, a cold or sinus infection, the congestion may cause eustachian tube dysfunction, the inability to equalize pressure.

Relief

• Chewing gum and yawning may help equalize the pressure. MayoClinic.com recommends pinching your nostrils closed and, with shut mouth, gently force air using the same action you use to blow your nose. Decongestants or nose spray may help reduce congestion.

Medical Help

• If popping continues, is painful or worsens, see your doctor.