A blocked ear can be understood to mean different things. For example a child might have put an object in their ear which has got stuck, or maybe the pressures in the ear have not settled after a flight?
If the ear is also painful then it would be advisable to have it examined by a nurse at the doctors surgery, or by a pharmacist.
NHS Information for Patients
The NHS provides a lot of information which may be relevant if you are concerned about a blocked ear.
Help at the Pharmacy
Speak to a pharmacist to begin with and ask them to have a look. They will spot if something is in the ear, or if there is an infection.
Ear Wax build up?
Excessive ear wax might cause ear ache or hearing problems. For further advice go to Ear Wax page for information on treatment
Foreign Object?
Something stuck in the ear is likely to cause hearing problems, and possibly a secondary infection. Ask the examining pharmacist for their advice
Ear Infection?
For further advice go to Ear Infection page.
Eustachian Tube Problems?
Some Eustachian tube problems can cause a feeling of fullness or that the ear is blocked, for example congestion as a result of a head-cold, or after a flight whilst air pressures have not settled.
If Symptoms Get Worse
See your GP if …
- your balance is being affected [dizziness or vertigo]
- your ear is clear but you are experiencing hearing problems
- you experience balance and hearing problems, especially if other family members have had similar symptoms.