Left ear clicks when I swallow

[ranajjar]

For about a month I have had this loud ear click in my left ear when I swallow. I can also hear it if I flex/voluntarily open up my ear. There's NO sign of congestion, infection, sinus problem, nor any pain or pressure. It is just a click/snap sound when I swallow now. It's pretty annoying and distracting and I've never had this problem before. Might I add that I am 5 months pregnant so I don't know if that would have something to do with the onset of this problem.

[ANNVE87]

did it ever end up going away? Im having this problem right now as well...

[ranajjar]

I already clarified that there was no presence of infections or pressure problems. I don't know why no one listens! It's just the onset of the noise all of a sudden. Please don't mention anything about fluid or pressure or infection please! I need different insight, perhaps something to do with alignment or tendons bones or muscle spasms. I already went to the doctor and my ears are normal and there is NO fluid. There is NO clearing that needs to be done and that is NOT what is causing the sound!!!

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hi, there are tubes called ‘Eustachian tubes’ which connect the middle ear to the throat, this balances the air pressure in the ears. This tube can get blocked due to infections of the throat, which can give lead to a feeling of fullness in the ears. So, when you swallow, the air is pushed through the tubes resulting in the clicking sound. This can also result in infection of the ears. Decongestants, steroid nasal sprays and antihistamine medications may help clear the tubes and facilitate drainage. The blocked ears can be opened up by the valsalva maneuver, where air is blown into the cheeks against a closed nostrils, this sometimes helps to open up the tubes. Steam inhalations and warm salt water gargles can help clear the tube. Please consult your family physician. Regards.