Ear blockage can be caused by various factors, including:

• Earwax blockage: Earwax is a natural part of the bodys defenses that cleans, coats, and protects the ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing the growth of bacteria. However, if earwax builds up in the ear or becomes too hard to wash away naturally, it can cause blockage and symptoms such as earache, feeling of fullness in the ear, ringing or noises in the ear (tinnitus), hearing loss, dizziness, cough, itchiness in the ear, odor or discharge in the ear, and pain or infection in the ear.

• Eustachian tube dysfunction: The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps to drain fluid from the middle ear and equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere outside. When the Eustachian tube doesnt open and close properly due to swelling or fluid, it can cause a clogged-up feeling in the ear. This can happen due to sinus or ear infections, allergies, other respiratory viruses, or high altitude.

• Ear infections: Ear infections can cause swelling and fluid in the ear, leading to a clogged sensation.

• Allergies: Allergic rhinitis can cause a blockage in the Eustachian tube, leading to a clogged feeling in the ear.

• Hearing loss: Hearing loss can cause a clogged sensation in the ear.

• Cholesteatoma: Cholesteatoma is a noncancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle ear, causing a clogged feeling, hearing loss, and other symptoms.

Treatment for ear blockage depends on the underlying cause. If the blockage is due to earwax buildup, over-the-counter earwax removal drops can be used to soften and loosen the wax. If the blockage is due to Eustachian tube dysfunction or an ear infection, medications recommended by a doctor may be helpful. In some cases, manual removal of earwax or other debris may be necessary, which should be done by a healthcare provider.