Blocked Ears? Here’s How the Otovent Can Help

Blocked ears can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes even affect your balance or hearing. Whether it’s due to allergies, a cold, flying, or glue ear (especially in children), that feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears can really disrupt your day.

One simple, non-invasive solution that can help? The Otovent.

Let’s explore what it is, how it works, and what else you can do if you’re experiencing blocked ears.

What Is the Otovent?

The Otovent is a small, easy-to-use device designed to help open up the Eustachian tubes—the tiny passageways that connect the middle ear to the back of the nose. These tubes help regulate pressure and drain fluid from the ears.

When the tubes become blocked, you might experience symptoms like:

• A sensation of fullness in the ear

• Popping or crackling sounds

• Muffled hearing

• Mild dizziness or imbalance

The Otovent works by using gentle pressure to help equalise the pressure in the middle ear, often relieving these symptoms.

How Does It Work?

It’s surprisingly simple—and child-friendly too. The Otovent kit includes a small nasal nozzle and a balloon.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Place the nozzle against one nostril while keeping the other nostril closed.

2. Blow up the balloon using your nose.

3. As you inflate the balloon, the increased pressure helps open the Eustachian tube and balance the pressure in your ears.

4. You’ll often hear or feel a “pop” as the pressure equalises.

Many people feel immediate relief after using it.

Who Can Benefit from Using an Otovent?

• Children or adults with glue ear

• Anyone with blocked ears after a cold or sinus infection

• Frequent flyers dealing with pressure changes

• People with mild Eustachian tube dysfunction

It's a safe, drug-free first-line treatment and can often prevent the need for more invasive options, like grommet surgery in children.

Other Tips for Managing Blocked Ears

In addition to using an Otovent, here are a few things you can try:

• Try swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum – These actions help naturally open the Eustachian tubes.

• Use a saline nasal spray – This can reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

• Stay well-hydrated – Keeping mucus thin can help it drain more easily.

• Avoid sudden pressure changes – Especially when flying or diving. If you must, try the Otovent before and after to ease transitions.

  
  

When to See a Professional

If your ears remain blocked for more than a couple of weeks, or if you're experiencing pain, hearing loss, or signs of infection, it's important to get checked by a hearing specialist or ENT professional. Prolonged Eustachian tube dysfunction can lead to fluid buildup and potential long-term hearing issues.

Final Thoughts

Blocked ears can be a nuisance, but they don’t always require medication or invasive treatment. The Otovent is a simple, effective tool to help relieve pressure, especially if used early.

If you’re not sure whether it’s right for you—or you’ve been struggling with persistent symptoms—it’s always worth booking a hearing check or consultation.