My Ears Make A Crackling Sound

Your ears are highly sensitive organs. They are finely tuned to pick up the softest whisper and the loudest roar. Just like any complex system, they can sometimes malfunction, leading to unexpected sounds like crackling or popping. If your ears make a crackling sound, then you should be wary. 

Unfortunately, the reasons for that crackling sound are not always clear. You may wonder whether it’s a real cause for concern or a temporary glitch. And when should you start worrying enough to seek serious medical attention?

Let’s explore all the common causes of ear crackling, potential treatments, and when you should consider looking for a healthcare professional to deal with it.

Possible Causes for a Crackling Sound in Your Ear

Experiencing a crackling sound in your ear can be jarring and concerning, but this sensation often comes from common and treatable conditions. Some conditions are milder and more manageable than others. Yet, even with the more serious conditions, there’s no need to despair as a solution always exists.

Eustachian tube dysfunction

These tubes are responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle ear. When these tubes become blocked because of allergies, colds, or sinus infections, you may hear crackling sounds. That’s the sound the tube makes as they try to equalize the pressure.

This condition is often temporary and may resolve on its own when your health improves. Alleviate your allergies or infections by taking the necessary medications or home remedies.

Earwax buildup

Excessive earwax can lead to blockage in the ear canal and it has different symptoms, including crackling noises. When earwax compacts, it interferes with sound transmission, resulting in popping or crackling sounds. This happens particularly when you move your jaw or swallow.

This condition can often be addressed with over-the-counter ear drops. To safely remove excessive earwax, consult a healthcare professional.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is not just characterized by ringing or buzzing; crackling is also one of the symptoms of tinnitus. Any sound not caused by external noises can indicate tinnitus. It’s a condition triggered by exposure to loud noises, ear infections, or underlying health issues.

There’s no cure for tinnitus. Tinnitus itself is indicative of hearing impairment. Book an appointment with an audiologist to have your hearing tested.

A build-up of fluid

Various infections can lead to fluid accumulation in the middle ear. This buildup creates a sensation of fullness and may cause crackling or popping sounds, especially when there are changes in pressure, such as during changes in height or while swallowing.

You can treat this condition with decongestants and antibiotics after consulting with your healthcare provider. Other home remedies, like inhaling vapors, may also help drain the fluids.

Ruptured eardrum

A more serious cause of ear crackling can be a ruptured eardrum. This may result from infection, trauma, or sudden changes in pressure. It’s usually accompanied by pain, hearing loss, or fluid drainage from the ear.

As this is a more serious condition, promptly seeing medical attention is advisable if you suspect a ruptured eardrum. A medical professional can advise you on the appropriate treatment of this condition.

TMJ disorder

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is what connects your jawbone to your skull. It’s what allows you to eat, speak, and express emotions. When this joint or the surrounding muscles become dysfunctional, it can lead to a range of symptoms including crackling sounds in the ears, jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.

You can alleviate pain from TMJ disorder with medication, but in the long run, you may need orthodontic treatments or oral surgery. 

Home Remedies to Treat Crackling in the Ear

Fortunately, if the crackling in your ear is occasional and not accompanied by severe symptoms, you can perform ‘first aid’ with home remedies. These remedies aim to help equalize the pressure in your ears and unclog your Eustachian tubes, which may be responsible for that crackling sound.

Here are some methods you can consider.

• Pop your ears by swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum. This is one of the simplest ways to alleviate ear crackling. Any activity that promotes pressure equalization in the middle ear will work, forcing the tubes to function properly and reduce the crackling.
• Use nasal irrigation. If you suspect nasal congestion to be the reason for your ear crackling, nasal irrigation can be a helpful remedy. Rinse your nasal passages using a saline solution to clear the mucus and reduce pressure in the Eustachian tubes. Investing in a neti pot or saline spray might be beneficial.
• Use a warm compress. Applying a warm compress to the affected ear can also be beneficial. The warmth will relieve congestion and promote circulation, easing the crackling sensation. Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it against your ear for several minutes. Steam inhalation may also help with decongestion.
• Apply ear massage. Gently massage around the outside of your ear and jaw area. The massaging motion will help move trapped fluids. Use gentle, circular motions, starting at the earlobe and working upwards.
• Perform the Valsava Maneuver. This is a technique that can equalize pressure in the ears. Pinch your nose shut, keep your mouth closed, and gently exhale as if you’re blowing your nose. This technique will increase pressure in the sinuses and chest, opening the Eustachian tubes and relieving the crackling sensation. However, avoid overusing this method as excessive pressure can cause discomfort.

As always, stay hydrated and avoid loud noises when you experience crackling in your ear. However, if none of the home remedies alleviate the crackling, contact your audiologist or hearing health professional immediately for a proper consultation.

Conclusion

Crackling in your ear may be explained by a disorder in your Eusthachian tubes, a fluid or wax buildup, tinnitus, a ruptured eardrum, or a TMJ-related issue. Some of these conditions can be remedied at home using recommended techniques. However, for a more serious condition like a ruptured eardrum and if the home remedy doesn’t work, contacting an ENT specialist or an audiologist is advisable. 

Keep your ears in fine health by performing a hearing evaluation. Hearing Associates of Las Vegas welcomes you for any ear consultation.