What Causes Popping or Crackling in Your Ears?

Posted on by Goodyear Office

A crackling or popping noise in your ears can have several possible causes, many of which are temporary and treatable. Understanding where the sound may be coming from can help you determine whether it’s something you can manage at home or whether it’s time for an ear exam.

TMJ Disorders

Man covering one ear and pointing to the other to illustrate noise in the ear.

The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, are located near your ears and connect your jawbone to your skull. Problems with these joints can cause clicking, popping or grinding noises, particularly when you chew, yawn or open and close your mouth. Because of the proximity to your ears, noises in your TMJs can feel like they’re coming from your ears.

You may also notice jaw soreness, facial discomfort or headaches along with the clicking.

If you suspect a TMJ disorder, talk with your dentist or your Goodyear primary care provider. Treatment may include exercises, lifestyle changes or a custom mouth guard, depending on the cause.

Impacted Earwax

Earwax is a normal part of ear health, but too much wax can build up and become impacted. When this happens, you may experience a plugged sensation, changes in hearing or unusual sounds such as popping and crackling.

Earwax is more likely to become impacted if you have narrow ear canals, use hearing aids or earbuds or frequently try to clean your ears with cotton swabs.

If earwax is causing your symptoms, avoid inserting objects into your ear to remove it. Our specialists can examine your ears and remove wax if necessary.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

The Eustachian tubes are small passages that connect your middle ears to the back of your nose and throat. They help drain fluid and keep the pressure inside your ears balanced with the pressure around you.

When these tubes become swollen or blocked, they may not open and close properly. This can lead to popping, crackling or a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Changes in air pressure can make these symptoms especially noticeable. This is why many people experience the symptom during airplane travel.

If your ears start popping or crackling while flying, you can try:

  • Closing your mouth, pinching your nose and gently blowing to help equalize pressure
  • Chewing gum or sucking on a lozenge
  • Swallowing frequently
  • Yawning

Eustachian tube problems can also develop when you have a cold, allergies, sinus congestion or another condition that causes inflammation. Treating the underlying problem will help get your Eustachian tubes back to doing their job effectively.  

When Should You Have Your Ears Checked?

Occasional crackling or popping may not be a cause for concern, particularly when it occurs during changes in air pressure or congestion. However, persistent or bothersome ear noises require a closer look.

If popping or crackling in your ear continues, schedule an appointment with Goodyear Office for an ear exam.