What are the Causes of Intermittent Pressure in the Ears?

Ear barotrauma, or differences in pressure between the outside and inside of a person's eardrums may occur intermittently and may cause ear discomfort, loss of hearing and dizziness. This condition may be treated with self care or with medical help.

Altitude Changes

• Changes in ear pressure often occur when a person changes altitude, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Flying in an airplane, driving through the mountains and scuba diving are common causes of ear barotraumas.

Nasal Congestion

• People with nasal congestion from allergies, the common cold or other upper respiratory ailments have an increased risk of developing ear discomfort due to pressure changes in the ears.

Eustachian Tubes

• Ear barotrauma in the middle ear can result from blocked eustachian tubes. Some infants can have a congenital form of eustachian tube blockage.

Throat Swelling

• Individuals with a swollen throat can develop ear pain and discomfort from ear barotrauma.

Treatment

• Many people can relieve ear pressure differences through self-care techniques such as yawning or gum chewing or with over-the-counter medications such as an antihistamine or a nasal decongestant. Doctors may treat severe cases of ear barotraumas by cutting a hole in the eardrum that allows ear fluid to drain and relieves pressure in the ear.