Crackling Sound in the Ear – What It Might Be
Thanks for the detailed explanation. Based on your history — previous infections after swimming in pools, current crackling sounds, wax removal, and no recent dental work — here are the most likely explanations:
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
This is one of the most common causes of crackling sounds, especially when chewing, swallowing, or yawning. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of your nose and helps equalize pressure. If it becomes inflamed or sticky — often after infections, allergies, or exposure to irritants (like chlorine in pools) — it can cause a crackling or popping sensation.
Why it fits your case: You had ear infections and are regularly exposed to water and pressure changes. Inflammation might persist even after the infection clears.
Treatment:
Use a nasal steroid spray such as fluticasone (Flonase) or mometasone (Nasonex) for at least 2–3 weeks.
Try gentle Valsalva maneuvers (pinch nose, close mouth, and gently blow) a few times a day to help open the tubes.
Avoid pressure changes (e.g., swimming, diving, or flying) if possible during this time.
Decongestants may offer short-term relief but are not recommended long term.
2. Middle Ear Fluid (Otitis Media with Effusion)
Even after the infection is gone, fluid can remain trapped behind the eardrum. This can cause bubbling or crackling sounds. It may not be visible through a basic ear exam, especially if the ear looks otherwise healthy.
Treatment: This usually resolves on its own, but nasal steroids and time can help. If fluid persists for several months or affects hearing, an ENT might suggest a pressure-equalization test (tympanometry) or even small tubes to help drain it.
3. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction
You mentioned this feels different from previous TMJ issues, but it’s still worth considering. The joint is right next to the ear canal, and inflammation or imbalance in the joint can cause clicking or crackling sounds.
Less likely in your case if there’s no jaw pain, stiffness, or obvious clicking when moving your jaw.
4. Fungal Infection (Otomycosis)
Frequent swimmers are prone to this. It can cause itchiness, a crackling sensation, mild discharge, or a feeling of fullness. Your ENT gave you antifungal drops, which is a good precaution.
If the crackling continues after completing the drops and there’s no itchiness or discharge, then a fungal infection is probably not the current issue.
5. Residual Wax or Eardrum Scarring
Even after professional wax removal, a very thin layer or dry residue may be left near the eardrum. In some cases, minor scarring or changes to the eardrum (from past infections or trauma) can alter its movement and cause odd sounds.
You mentioned using a camera to check yourself, but even high-quality home scopes can miss subtle membrane changes or deeper wax residue.
What You Can Try Next:
Start a nasal steroid spray like Flonase (fluticasone) once or twice daily and continue for 2–3 weeks.
Avoid swimming in pools for now, or switch to vented earplugs if you return to it.
Don’t use irrigation or camera tools in the ear frequently — overcleaning can cause irritation.
Monitor for any new symptoms (pain, hearing loss, dizziness, discharge).
When to See an ENT Again:
If the crackling persists beyond a few more weeks or if it gets worse, it’s a good idea to return to the ENT and specifically ask about:
Tympanometry (to measure pressure and fluid behind the eardrum)
Eustachian tube function
Signs of tympanic membrane scarring or retraction