The Toynbee ManeuverPinch your nose and take a few sips of water. Swallowing helps pull the Eustachian tubes open while the closed nose creates a slight pressure change.

The Eustachian tube is effectively a one-way flap valve. It is much easier for air to get out than it is for air to get in . If the tube is swollen or blocked, air cannot enter, and the vacuum sucks the eardrum inward. This tension creates the feeling of "clogging."

To understand the clog, you have to understand the architecture of your ear.

Decongestant nose sprays, including oxymetazoline (like Afrin) reduce swelling in the back of the nose at the opening of the Eusta... ColumbiaDoctors Ears and airplane travel, earwax, and ear cleaning - University Hospitals Breathe in through the mouth. Pinch the nostrils shut and purse your lips closed. Then exhale (while keeping nostrils and lips sea... University Hospitals Plugged ears: What is the remedy? - Mayo Clinic If your ears are plugged, try swallowing, yawning or chewing sugar-free gum to open your eustachian tubes. If this doesn't take a ... Mayo Clinic Ear Infection Care Marina Del Rey - Otitis Treatment Bakersfield The best medicines to help dry up infected fluid within the ear are antihistamines like Benadryl and decongestants such as Sudafed... Del Rey MD | Sinus | Allergy | ENT Clogged Ear After Flying? Expert Help & Solutions Q&A Nov 24, 2025 —