Can I Ever Exercise or Do Pushups Normally Without Making My Ears Feel Clogged or Full?

[PeteJ]

Whenever I try to do pushups, my left ear feels clogged or full. I've read that it can be risky to exercise, especially doing pushups, when you have tinnitus or other ear problems, since those issues can sometimes worsen.

Is there anything that can be done? ENTs have never helped me. I've seen two so far, not for this specific issue, but because my family physician kept referring me to them. Each time it was the same story, no solution and no improvement. They just can't seem to do anything about it.

So, should I avoid jogging, walking, exercising, or doing pushups because of my left ear? My right ear isn't affected, and the tinnitus is so loud that it's hard to tell which ear is worse, but I usually think it's the right one. Still, my left ear tends to have more problems such as pain, fullness, and ear canal issues.

Can anyone offer advice or share a similar experience?

I also read that you should exhale when pushing up and inhale when lowering yourself. Does that make sense? I don't want to make my ears worse. I've had a lot of spikes and incidents recently from loud noises. I also have trouble with earplugs and earmuffs, since I can only wear them for short periods, and inserting or removing them is painful because my ear canals are so sensitive.

It has been the usual hell, but I'm just trying to improve my health. I'm hoping that exercise might help overall, maybe even benefit my ear condition, though probably only a little. Still, I don't know what else to do.

 

[Sonia554]

Hi @PeteJ, I have the same problem. I used to work out regularly before this happened, but my left ear took the brunt of it and had a lot of swelling and soreness. It still does, although to a much lesser degree than a few months ago. I wouldn't even think about trying a push-up or downward dog right now.

You can definitely still exercise, though. I go on a lot of walks around the neighborhood. You can do yoga that doesn't involve being upside down or facing the floor. You can jog, bike, or use moderate weights. You can do push-ups against a wall or use a resistance band attached to a door.

I wouldn't do anything that causes a lot of strain if it makes your ears feel strange, but exercise is actually very important. The blood flow and movement will help your ears. You just need to find what works best for you.

 

[Escalado]

Hey @PeteJ, sorry this is off-topic from your question.

I've been reading some older threads and came across several of your posts from 2019, when you were at your lowest point. I was wondering how you managed to pull yourself out of that mindset of not wanting to be here anymore. Seeing that you're still very much alive and kicking six years later gave me a real boost and helped restore some hope in myself.

Thank you.