Why Do Ears Pop?-Ear Popping 101
Why do ears pop? Well, in this post I’ll discuss what ear popping is and what causes it. Coming up!
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Hi, I’m Dr. Derek, audiologist with Pro Fit Hearing.com bringing you the best insight into today’s latest hearing aids and audio technology to improve your life. If you have concerns about your hearing, always consult with your local physician or audiologist.
Why Do Ears Pop?
Welcome to Question of the Day, Friday where I answer your hearing healthcare and audio technology question.
Today, I’m talking about ear popping. What is it and why does it happen?
Your ear has three parts: the external, middle, and inner ear. The external ear is the part you can see, the middle ear contains the three ear bones, and the inner ear is the part that contains the hearing sensory cells called hair cells. It is the hair cells that ultimately send signals up to the brain so that we can hear sound. Today, I’ll be focusing specifically on the middle ear since that’s where ear popping occurs.
The middle ear is an air filled cavity that lies just past the eardrum. This is where the three smallest bones in the body are located: the malleus, incus, and stapes commonly referred to as the hammer, anvil, and stirrup. The stapes (or stirrup) is the smallest of the three bones, and it is also the smallest bone in the body. When sound enters our ears, the sound makes the eardrum vibrate which also makes the ear bones vibrate. These vibrating ear bones then transfer sound energy directly into the inner ear so that we can perceive sound.
Surrounding the ear bones is an air cavity. The air pressure within this cavity is regulated by the eustachian tube that goes to the back of your throat. It is the opening and closing of this tube that causes ear popping. Ear popping often occurs when changing elevation like driving into the mountains, flying in an airplane, or taking an elevator up or down. Ear popping is normal and occurs with air pressure equalization within the middle ear.
Often when we have a cold, the eustachian tube does not open and close normally. This can lead to the sensation of clogged ears or ear fullness. Yawning or swallowing may provide some relief. If you are experiencing ear pain, consult with your physician.
Question of the Day
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Remember, Pro Fit Hearing brings you the best insight into today’s latest hearing aids and audio technology to improve your life. If you have concerns about your hearing, always consult with your local physician or audiologist.
-Dr. Derek