Constant Ear Popping

[emrnyc]

For the past couple of years, I've had a constant popping/crackling in my ears.  I hear it when I swallow, yawn, etc.  I went to the ENT and he did a tympanometry test that came back normal, but said the he could hear the crackling when he listened in my ears.  There may be a problem with my Eustacian tube or, better yet, the muscles behind it.  He said there isn't much to do but maybe try an antihistamine which hasn't worked.  Even though its not life-threatening, its very frustrating to live with this!  Is there anything else, at all, to do to get rid of this noise?

[dolphin519]

I have the same problems(I am 14, have had it since forever)!! Ear infections since I was little, constant popping, ear pain when pressure changes(altitude, underwater, barometric, just randomly, temp. changes, etc.). I have been looking for treatment I can do at home to alleviate the pain. So far, the only treatment I have found is:
-eating/drinking, yawning helps a little but not really
-sucking on candy/chewing gum helps for a short amount of time
-acupressure helps immediately when he does it, and then for some time after, but then it hurts again at home and I can't replicate it.
-have also been taking chinese herbs, not sure if it has an effect.
-applying heat(warm cloth) helps a little.
I'm not sure how to help the constant popping and how to stop the pain. Please reply if you have found any treatment! Thanks!! Can't believe there are so many people with the same problem!

[dolphin519]

Oh wait sorry don't use heat!! I just read it can like rupture your eardrum if you have an infection behind it or something. Sorry!

[shezbabes]

I have had this problem for roughly 9 years, i am now 18.
has any treatments worked for anyone?
i yawn and swallow and my ears pop, i gets in the way of everyday life activitys and i cant hear that good also.
Mike

[thanqu]

I have the similar problem. Constant ear pressure and clicking.

I've been to an ENT specialist who diagnosed my problem as a deviated nasal septum (DNS) an consequently I underwent surgery to correct this (removed part of my septum to improve the air flow). This has improved the flow of air through my nose which was originally a problem that was caused by an allergy (prolonged exposure to dust). However, my ENT now recommends that I have a micro surgical incision into my Eustachian tube, which will either correct the air pressure (re-balance) or drain the fluid, if any, out of my ear relieving any of the pressure.

I'm due to have this soon and will update this thread with the results.  

[kjhamik]

I've had all of these symptoms for going on 7 years now.  I've had to put it on the back burner because of other medical problems, but it's getting to the point where I can't ignore it anymore.  The last time I mentioned it to my ENT I don't think surgery on the eustachian tube itself was an option, so PLEASE let me know how your procedure goes and if it helps! Just knowing such a procedure exists somewhere gives me all new hope!

[joojoobee99]

I have had a lot of similar problems: ear/jaw/sinuses/neck, etc... I used to be a real worrier about so many things. Fear is the worst sickness of all! If it is something really bad and you are going to die, than there is nothing you can do about it. If its something that can be cured - great! But the worrying is the REAL killer! Stop worrying, stop being afraid. Peace to all of you, sweet, calm restful, healing dreams.