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A crackling sound in ears is a sound which features with a pop in the ear during swallowing or yawning. It can be rather annoying especially if it recurs and becomes frequent. This particular sound effect develops as a consequence of imbalance of the pressure inside the ear and the atmospheric pressure. Proper balance between two pressures is obtained by adequate functioning of the Eustachian tube.

Why Does Crackling Sound in Ears Occur?

The ear is definitely one of the most important organs in the body. It has two major roles. The ear is an organ necessary for reception of sounds from the surrounding and it is also engaged in balancing of the ear pressure. A clicking sound in ear results as a consequence of alterations in the pressure in the ear and its inadequate adaption.

The Eustachian tube is a part of the middle ear and it connects the pharynx and the middle ear. This organ is in charge with equalizing the ear pressure with the atmospheric pressure. In case of any difference between these two pressures the Eustachian tube opens and corrects the difference. The alterations in pressure generally occur when a person is traveling by plane, climbing high altitudes or is engaged in scuba diving. Furthermore, the pressure alterations can be associated with extremely high decibel levels.

Apart from experiencing crackling sound in ear during the previously mentioned if the problem occurs under normal circumstances it may be alarming. Frequent crackling in ears points to malfunctioning of the Eustachian tube. The tube can be clogged and unable to perform its role properly. So the pressure inside the middle ear increases and it is released with a snap most commonly while a person eats (chews), swallows or yawns. The build-up of the pressure inside the middle ear may also lead to the stiffness of the tympanic membrane and consequent perceiving muffled sounds. There is one more cause of crackling sound in ear may be excessive accumulation of ear wax inside the outer ear canal.

How to Deal with Crackling Sound in Ears?

The problem can be successfully prevented if one maintains proper hygiene of the ear canal and eliminates the excess of ear wax. Crackling sound in ears when yawning helps in release of the build-up pressure and it is generally not considered pathological. It is a normal way to get rid of too much pressure.

If the problem persists and particularly if a person experienced additional symptoms such as hearing loss or even pain in the era he/ she must consult a doctor. The doctor will perform otorhiolaryngological examination and additional tests and identify the underlying cause. With proper treatment crackling sound in ears can be successfully dealt with.

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