Your ears will most likely go back to normal after a couple of days if the blockage is caused by air pressure. You might have to wait for your immune system to kick in if your blockage is due to an ear infection (and, if it's the latter, antibiotics can really help). This may take up to a couple of weeks.

In many cases, a blocked ear will eventually unblock on its own, but the timeline depends heavily on the underlying cause. If the blockage is due to air pressure changes (such as after a flight), it typically clears within a few hours or a day as the Eustachian tubes equalize. If it is caused by fluid build-up from a common cold or sinus infection, it may take one to two weeks for the body to naturally drain the mucus. However, if the blockage is caused by impacted earwax, it is unlikely to unblock itself and usually requires professional intervention, such as ear drops to soften the wax or a clinical ear syringing/microsuction procedure. You should never attempt to clear a blockage with cotton buds, as this often pushes the wax deeper against the eardrum, worsening the problem. If your blocked ear is accompanied by sharp pain, fluid drainage, or a sudden and significant loss of hearing, it is essential to see a doctor immediately to rule out an ear infection or a perforated eardrum. For simple pressure-related blockages, practicing the "Valsalva maneuver" (gently blowing while pinching your nose and closing your mouth) can often provide immediate relief.