Answered from cited sources · retrieved September 20, 2026
how to pop your ears
You can pop your ears by yawning, swallowing, chewing gum, or using gentle maneuvers like the Valsalva or Toynbee techniques to equalize pressure.
Popping your ears helps equalize pressure in the middle ear by opening the eustachian tubes. Simple, non-invasive methods include yawning, swallowing, or chewing gum, which activate the muscles that open these tubes. If these are ineffective, you can try the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose, closing your mouth, and blowing gently) or the Toynbee maneuver (pinching your nose and swallowing). When using pressure-based maneuvers, it is important to be gentle to avoid damaging your eardrum. If congestion is the cause, over-the-counter decongestants or nasal sprays may help, though they should be used as directed.
- Everyday Actions. Yawning, swallowing, and chewing gum are simple, safe ways to activate the muscles that open your eustachian tubes and equalize pressure.
- Pressure Maneuvers. The Valsalva maneuver involves pinching your nose, closing your mouth, and blowing gently. The Toynbee maneuver involves pinching your nose and swallowing. Always perform these gently.
- Medications and Sprays. If congestion from colds or allergies is the cause, nasal decongestants, saline sprays, or nasal steroids may help reduce inflammation and clear the tubes.
- Safety Precautions. Never insert objects like cotton swabs or fingers into your ears, as this can damage the eardrum or push wax deeper. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Sources
- 5 Ways To Pop Your Ears Safelyhealth.clevelandclinic.org · published April 30, 2025
- The Best Ways to Pop Your Earswebmd.com · published April 22, 2021
- How to pop your ears safely: 9 tips and remediesmedicalnewstoday.com · published January 3, 2020
- Plugged ears: What is the remedy?mayoclinic.org · published April 24, 2024
- How to Pop Your Ears: Best Way to Clear Clogged Earsmenshealth.com · published March 9, 2026
- How to pop your ears, according to expertsusatoday.com · published September 12, 2025
- How to pop your ears | McGovern Medical Schoolmed.uth.edu
- Why Do My Ears Pop? | Henry Ford Health - Detroit, MIhenryford.com · published February 17, 2025
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