What Causes a Sudden Feeling of Ear Congestion?
Approximately four days ago, I (21-year-old male) experienced a sensation of fullness in my ear, which isn't an unusual occurrence for me. I decided to visit the urgent care facility for an ear cleaning. The accumulation of earwax was quite significant, and although they managed to remove some of it, not all of it was cleared away. As a result, I left feeling some improvement, yet my ear became extremely sensitive. In the following days, my ear has remained very tender, with occasional discomfort, and periodically, I find that it feels "clogged" again. I'm seeking advice on this matter. Any suggestions?
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 2:01:10 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a combination of earwax buildup and possibly some irritation in your ear. The sensation of fullness, sensitivity, and tenderness in your ear can be caused by a few factors, including residual earwax, inflammation, or even an ear infection. Here’s a clear breakdown of what this may mean and what steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Residual earwax can contribute to ongoing feelings of fullness.
- Sensitivity and discomfort may indicate irritation or inflammation.
- Keeping the ear dry and monitoring symptoms is essential for recovery.
Explanation:
When you had your ear cleaned, it's possible that not all the wax was removed, which can cause ongoing blockage and feelings of fullness. Additionally, the cleaning process itself can irritate the ear canal, leading to tenderness and sensitivity. Sometimes water or moisture that enters the ear can also exacerbate these feelings.
Next Steps:
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Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth to keep the outer ear clean but avoid inserting anything (like cotton swabs) into the ear canal, as this can further push wax in or irritate the skin.
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Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to the affected ear for about 15-20 minutes, which can help soothe irritation and alleviate discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms over the next few days. If the fullness persists, or if you experience any hearing loss, drainage, worsening pain, or fever, it would be important to seek further evaluation.
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Stay Dry: Avoid getting your ear wet while showering or swimming. You can use a shower cap or earplugs to prevent water from entering your ear.
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Consider OTC Pain Relief: If you’re experiencing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may help manage your symptoms.
Let me know if you have any further questions or concerns as you proceed with these steps!
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