Your symptoms may be caused by nasal congestion, sinus inflammation, or eustachian tube dysfunction, which affects the pressure in your ear. Try gently clearing your nose with saline nasal sprays and avoid forceful nose blowing and sudden changes in air pressure, such as flying or diving. If your symptoms persist or worsen, please see a doctor for proper evaluation.

An irritating sensation in the ear when air enters may be caused by ear canal dryness, a mild outer ear infection, wax build-up, or eustachian tube dysfunction. Do not insert cotton buds or other objects into your ear, and try to keep it dry. If the discomfort persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain or hearing loss, please consult an ENT doctor for a proper examination and treatment.