Do your ears pop in winter? This is why

Ever felt that strange “pop” in your ears as you step outside on a brisk winter day? It’s not just you! That popping sensation is your body attempting to adjust to a sudden change in air pressure, and it happens more frequently in winter for a few intriguing reasons.

Dr Deepti Sinha, lead consultant, Dept of ENT at the CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi, explained that our ears may pop in the winter because of changes in air pressure.

“Lower air pressure can result from cold temperatures, particularly in small areas like the middle ear. This difference in pressure affects the Eustachian tubes, which balance the pressure on each side of the eardrum. We feel a popping sound in our ears when these tubes are unable to control pressure,” she told indianexpress.com in an interaction.

Additionally, middle ear fluid retention in the winter might be caused by the complications of past ear infections, which can result in ongoing popping and cracking sounds, Dr Sinha said. The need for appropriate ear care during the colder months is highlighted by the environment that seasonal pressure variations and leftover fluid generate, which makes ears more prone to popping.

How can you prevent this from happening?

• To prevent persistent ear popping, timely consultation with an ENT specialist is crucial.
• Regular examinations can take care of any underlying problems, making sure that infections are treated right away and don’t cause middle ear fluid to persist.
• Pressure imbalances can be lessened by keeping your ears clean and limiting your exposure to sudden temperature changes. Maintaining hydration also helps with fluid balance.
• Adjusting habits like yawning, chewing gum, or swallowing during flights or altitude changes might help to stabilise ear pressure and reduce the chance of pain and popping sensations.

Inhaling steam is a simple first aid technique that works well for providing instant relief from earache (Source: Pexels)

What are some first-aid tips for this?

Inhaling steam is a simple first aid technique that works well for providing instant relief from earache, said Dr Sinha. Warm steam inhalation eases congestion and improves drainage, which eases pressure in the ears.

“To capture the steam, cover your head with a towel as you lean over the boiling water. Helping to open the Eustachian tubes, promotes pressure equalisation,” explained Dr Sinha.

Also, fast relief can be obtained with over-the-counter pain medicines. However, she warned that prolonged pain or symptoms require medical attention from a qualified provider, so speaking with one is crucial for a complete evaluation and the best course of action.

What are the treatment options one can look at?

To treat infections or congestion, decongestants or antibiotics are often administered during outpatient department (OPD) visits for medical treatment of ear disorders. Antibiotics fight bacterial infections, while decongestants aid in edema reduction, Dr Sinha said.

Surgical procedures may be considered if medicine proves to be ineffective or if the problem continues. Surgical procedures, such as the insertion of ventilation tubes or correcting problems with the Eustachian tubes, are intended to correct structural disorders within the ear, she explained.

Yet, the decision between medication and surgical methods depends on the diagnosis and the seriousness of the ear ailment, highlighting the significance of expert advice in choosing the most efficient course of action.

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