Plugged ears can be caused by simple conditions that usually disappear on their own in a few days. Other conditions that last longer may bring inner ear damage and should be brought to a physician's attention.
Allergies
Allergies like hay fever may cause nasal passages to feel stuffy. The ears, connected to nasal passages, may begin to feel full and stuffy as well.
Infections
Ear infections may often be caused by viruses. These cause the inner to swell and become painful.
Ear Wax
Ear wax generally keeps the ear safe against foreign items like dust. Sometimes, however, this wax builds up and instead of helping the ear, it makes it feel all stuffed up.
High Altitudes
When the ears experience a change in altitude, as with airplane travel, this can cause pressure in the ear to change. This change can make the ear feel plugged up and is generally cured by chewing gum or yawning.
Objects
Objects that may get lodged in the ear, for example a Q-tip, can cause the ear to feel plugged. The removal of the object will generally make the ear feel better.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Eustachian tube dysfunction usually happens when the tube is blocked. Some symptoms of this may be a ringing in the ears and difficulty hearing.
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