EARS

About a month ago my ears started popping and cracklng everytime I swallow and when I flex my face. I haven't had a cold or be sick. What is it? How do I stop it?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Popping and crackling sound in the ears is due to Eustachian tube dysfunction. For each ear, a eustachian tube runs from the middle ear to the back of the throat and when this tube is blocked then it may cause fluid build up in ear and infections. The throbbing stuffy sensation the ears can also be due to sinus congestions, ear wax or ear infections. Are you having any cold or nasal congestion also? In my opinion getting an ENT examination will be better as without examination, confirming a diagnosis is tough.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.