How to Stop Crackling in Ears?

Crackling in ear: Everyone has experienced some unusual sounds in their ears randomly. The distinctive sounds might be of hissing, buzzing, or even ringing. But, when this sound is like something crackling inside your ear, it is next-level annoying. If you are wondering how to stop crackling in ears, you are at the right place; but before that, you need to know that there might be mild to severe reasons why you hear these sounds.

Causes of crackling in your ear

Before knowing the remedies and treatment, try to identify the exact reason behind the ear crackling. It’s essential to consult with a doctor to determine the cause of the crackling and the appropriate treatment. They may also refer you to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation and treatment. If you are wondering “Why do I hear crackling in my ear?” There are several potential causes of crackling ears, including:

• Earwax build-up
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• Allergic reactions
• Inner ear disorders such as Meniere’s disease
• Respiratory infections such as the cold or flu
• Damage to the eardrum

Home Remedies to Stop Crackling in Ears

Here are some home remedies that may help alleviate crackling ears:

• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam can help open up the Eustachian tubes and reduce congestion. Try running a hot shower and sitting in the bathroom for a few minutes, or hold your head over a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head to trap the steam.
• Jaw exercises: Yawning, chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw around can help open up the Eustachian tubes and reduce crackling.
• Chewing gum: Chewing gum can also help open up the Eustachian tubes.
• Saline nasal spray: A saline nasal spray can help to moisturize the nasal passages and reduce inflammation.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated can help to reduce congestion and inflammation in the ears.
• Avoid loud noises: Loud noises can damage the ears and worsen symptoms, so it’s important to avoid exposure to loud noises as much as possible.
• Nasal irrigation: It is also known as sinus flush. In this process, you rinse with saltwater. It will help remove excess mucus from your nose and sinuses to open up the Eustachian tubes.

Medical Treatments to Stop Crackling in Ears

If home remedies do not help, here’s how to fix crackling in ear. You can move on to more serious treatments for crackling ears. It’s always best to consult a doctor if you experience persistent crackling in your ears, as it may be a symptom of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. A healthcare professional will guide you through the treatments. Some of the treatments are as follows:

• Earwax removal: A healthcare professional can remove earwax that may be causing the crackling sound. Or you can use an earwax softener like mineral oil and hydrogen peroxide to loosen the wax and remove it with an ear swab.
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: Decongestants or antihistamines can help open up the Eustachian tubes and relieve symptoms.
• Allergic reactions: Treating the underlying allergy with antihistamines or nasal sprays can help reduce inflammation and crackling in the ears.
• Inner ear disorders: Treatments for internal ear disorders, such as Meniere’s disease, may include diuretics, steroids, and other medications to reduce symptoms.
• Respiratory infections: Treatment for the respiratory disease may include antibiotics, decongestants, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Damage to the eardrum: If the crackling sound is caused by damage to the eardrum, it may require surgery to repair the damage.
• Placement of ear tubes: You might have to place ear tubes to equalize pressure in your middle ear. It will help in the drainage of fluid.
• Balloon dilation: A small balloon catheter is utilized to assist in opening the eustachian tubes during balloon dilation.

It’s important to note that these remedies may help alleviate symptoms, but they should not replace professional medical advice. If you experience persistent symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the crackling and the appropriate treatment.

Also read: What is summer cold and how to prevent and treat it?

Conclusion

The crackling sound in the ears is always annoying. It might be due to a mere cold or may be a symptom of a severe infection. If it lasts longer than a day, you should find the reason behind the sound. Also, if the sound is causing discomfort in your day-to-day activities, you should consult a doctor immediately.

FAQs

• Will ear crackling go away?

Yes, ear crackling is treatable, and it will go away quickly, depending on the severity of the cause. It would be best if you focused on unclogging the Eustachian tube for rapid results.

• Why is my ear making crackling noises?

The Eustachian tube, which is a tiny tube in your ear, is the cause of these noises. The crackling occurs when these mucus-lined passageways open, allowing air and fluid to circulate and equalize the pressure in your ears.

• How long does crackling in ears last?

Depending upon the underlying cause, crackling in the ear can last from a day to a few weeks. If crackling lasts longer than a day, consult a doctor to have suitable treatment.

• Does crackling in ears mean an ear infection?

Not necessarily. But, yes, if it is accompanied by fever and other symptoms, it might be symptoms of an ear infection. Please consult a medical practitioner to find the exact reason, and don’t take it lightly.