Crackling sounds (or a feeling of ear-cloggage) in your ears can be frightening, and are one of many different possible causes for crackling ears. As the causes have been discussed, it should help to identify why you feel that sensation and point you in the direction of management.
Crackling in Ear When Moving Jaw
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder One of the most common reasons you may hear crackling in your ears when moving your jaw is due to anatomical disorder known as the temporomandibular joint. The TMJ is the jawbone joint that connects to the skull, and disorders associated with this joint can cause clicking or popping of the jaw as you open and close your mouth. Jaw misalignment can lead to TMJ disorder, as can other factors such as bruxism (teeth grinding), jaw arthritis or an injury to the jaw joint.
What Causes Crackling in the Ear?
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube helps in maintaining the proper pressure in the middle ear. If the tube becomes dysfunctional because of congestion, due to allergies or a sinus infection, you will hear crackling or popping noises.
Earwax Build-Up: If there is too much earwax in the ear canal, it can cause a blockage, leading to a crackling feeling.
Otitis Media: (middle ear infections) Infections in the middle ear can cause fluid buildup which results in crackling sounds.
Age-related Changes: Changes in the anatomy and physiology of the ear, known to occur with increasing age, at times result in crackling sensations.
Crackling in Ear When Swallowing COVID
A few people have said they hear a popping sound in their ears when they swallow while having or after having COVID-19. This may be because the virus causes inflamed and/or blockage in the Eustachian tube and middle ear. Monitoring these symptoms and seeking help from a medical professional if they are persistent or getting worse is necessary.
Why Is There Crackling in My Ear?
If you have crackling in your ear, it’s all about figuring out why and the factors vary greatly from person to person.
The cause: TMJ disorder, Eustachian tube dysfunction, or middle ear infections.
Environmental: Loud sounds or differing altitudes (ie, when flying) or allergens.
Physical causes –waxing of the ear or any structural damage to ear.
Why Is There a Crackling Sound in My Ear?
Crackling Sound in Ear: What You Need to Know & How to RespondThe feeling of a crackling sensation in your ear can be alarming and is worth investigating with regard to its possible causes:
Visit a Specialist: If you get this type of crackle often or if it’s associated with another symptom (like pain, hearing loss, etc.), make an appointment to see an ENT.
Treatments: Depending on the cause, you may be prescribed medications to help reduce inflammation and symptoms, manage your allergies or treat a TMJ disorder.
So to sum it up, ear crackling may be due multiple causes like TMJ disorder, Eustachian dysfunction, infections or environmental factors. Knowing what might relief help you find the right medical advice and treatments to remedy the discomfort, or feeling like there is cracking in your ear. If symptoms lack in resolution or are worsening, the next important step is to seek professional evaluation and possible diagnosis.
