Hello, I have a crackling sound in my ear when I swallow. Should I go have my ears cleaned or is there another trick?
28-year-old woman
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Alexandre Chagnon · 3 years ago
Hello Ma'am,
Usually, this type of symptom is caused by fluid behind the eardrum (in the middle ear). Thus, washing the ears may not make much difference.
Alexandre Chagnon · 3 years ago
In such a situation, there is a very useful technique that allows the accumulation of fluid to drain from the ear to the throat (through a small duct called the Eustachian tube):
- When the nose is free of most of its secretions (you can use the Sinus Rinse™ for this if you consider it necessary), use a product like Otrivin™. This will work by opening the small canal that connects the ear and throat (the Eustachian tube);
- About 30-45 minutes after applying Otrivin in your nose, do the Valsalva maneuver, which consists of pinching the nose with your fingers, closing your mouth and "blowing" while swallowing. It may sound complicated written here, but it's pretty simple.
By doing this you will allow the Eustachian tube to open and allow the fluid that has accumulated in the ear to drain out (as illustrated here at 1:40).
If the technique doesn't solve the problem in less than 2 days, I invite you to consult a doctor. The doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid spray to reduce the swelling that can block the flow.
Alexandre Chagnon · 3 years ago
Happy day,
Alexander
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