Why does my ear get clogged when I sleep on my side?

Nov 5
17:26

2023

Jane Scaplen

Jane Scaplen

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There are a few reasons why your ear might get clogged when you sleep on your side: Eustachian tube or fluid built up in the middle ear

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One reason is that the Eustachian tube,Why does my ear get clogged when I sleep on my side? Articles which connects the middle ear to the throat, can become blocked. The Eustachian tube helps to equalize air pressure in the middle ear and to drain fluid and mucus from the ear. When you sleep on your side, the Eustachian tube can become kinked or blocked, which can prevent fluid and mucus from draining properly.

Another reason why your ear might get clogged when you sleep on your side is that fluid can build up in the middle ear. This is because the middle ear is lower than the throat when you sleep on your side. This can make it more difficult for fluid to drain from the ear.

Finally, your ear might also get clogged when you sleep on your side if you have a cold or allergies. This is because colds and allergies can cause inflammation and swelling of the 

Eustachian tube, which can make it more difficult for the tube to function properly.

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Why do I wake up with a blocked ear everyday?

  • Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is the most common cause of blocked ears. The Eustachian tube is a small tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. It helps to equalize air pressure in the middle ear and to drain fluid and mucus from the ear. When the Eustachian tube is not working properly, it can cause fluid to build up in the middle ear, which can lead to a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear. ETD can be caused by a number of factors, including allergies, colds, sinusitis, and changes in altitude.
  • Earwax buildup is another common cause of blocked ears. Earwax is a natural substance that helps to protect the ear canal from dirt and dust. However, if too much earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear. Earwax buildup can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, narrow ear canals, and wearing hearing aids.
  • Swimmer's ear (otitis externa) is an inflammation of the outer ear canal. It is often caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal after swimming or bathing. Swimmer's ear can cause pain, itching, drainage from the ear, and a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear.
  • Foreign object in the ear can also cause a blocked ear. If a foreign object, such as a cotton swab or a small toy, gets stuck in the ear canal, it can block the passage of sound and cause a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear.

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How do I stop my ears from clogging when I sleep?

To stop your ear from getting clogged when you sleep on your side, you can try the following:

  • Sleep with your head elevated. This will help to keep the Eustachian tube open and to prevent fluid from building up in the middle ear.
  • Use a humidifier in your bedroom. This will help to moisten the air and to reduce inflammation of the Eustachian tube.
  • Blow your nose gently before bed to clear any mucus that may be blocking the Eustachian tube.
  • Avoid sleeping on the side of the ear that is clogged.

If your ear is clogged and does not improve with home remedies, see your doctor. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions and recommend treatment.