Clogged Ear or Ear Infection? Know the Difference and What to Do

Clogged ears and ear infections are common but uncomfortable issues that affect hearing and overall wellness. Whether it’s pressure during a flight or an intense earache, knowing how to tell the difference between a clogged ear and an ear infection can help you take the right steps—and avoid unnecessary complications.

Here’s how to recognize the signs, understand the causes, and know when to seek care.

What Causes a Clogged Ear?

Clogged ears are typically caused by a blockage in the ear canal. This may be due to:

• Earwax buildup
• Changes in pressure (e.g., flying or diving)
• Water trapped in the ear
• Congestion from a cold or allergies
• Sinus infections

Symptoms of a clogged ear often include:

• A sensation of fullness
• Muffled hearing
• Mild discomfort or pressure
• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

In most cases, clogged ears are not serious and can be treated at home or with help from an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist.

What Is an Ear Infection?

Unlike simple ear clogs, ear infections are often caused by bacteria or viruses in the middle ear. These infections can become serious if left untreated.

Common symptoms of an ear infection include:

• Sharp or throbbing ear pain
• Fever
• Ear discharge
• Hearing difficulty
• Jaw pain
• Dizziness or imbalance

Children are especially prone to ear infections, but adults can get them too—especially after a cold or sinus issue.

Treatment Tip:

Ear infections usually require antibiotics or other medical intervention. In severe or chronic cases, doctors may insert ear tubes to drain fluid and prevent recurrence.

Clogged Ear vs. Ear Infection: How to Tell the Difference

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If you’re unsure whether your symptoms point to a clogged ear or an ear infection, play it safe—see your doctor for a diagnosis.

Home Remedies for Clogged Ears

For mild ear clogs, try these remedies:

• Over-the-counter ear drops
• Warm compress
• Hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil drops
• Decongestant nasal sprays
• Yawning, chewing gum, or swallowing (to equalize pressure)

When to See a Doctor

See a provider if you experience:

• Persistent pain or pressure
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days
• Fever or drainage from the ear
• Sudden hearing loss
• A foreign object stuck in the ear

Find Relief at BASS Medical Group

Whether you’re dealing with a clogged ear or an ear infection, the team at BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our ENT and Primary Care specialists serve patients across Northern California and are experienced in treating both simple and complex ear conditions.

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