hi and thanks for the query From the description you have given me, it looks like you have eustachian tube dysfunction. Eustachian tube is a small tube that connects the back of the nose to the middle portion of the ear. This tube maintains atmospheric presuure in your ear If the tube malfuctions due to any reason, then pressure in your ear falls leading to muffling of sounds, echoing of your voice in your own head, feeling the need to pop your ears, pain or discomfort in ears. Eustachian tube can get blocked for a variety of reasons, like 1) Cold 2) Nasal allergy 3) Enlarged adenoids(kids) 4) Travelling in an aeroplane 5) Diving. 6) Congenital(since birth) 7) Growth in the nasopharynx (roof of the nose) - seen in adults and older individuals. Growth can be malignant. You have to be evaluated for allergies of the nose and for growths in the nasopharynx I suggest you consult an ENT specialist soon and if allergy is ruled out then insist on getting a nasal endoscopy done to look into your nasopharynx to rule out a growth. Till then you can follow some measures to relieve your symptoms 1. Steam inhalation 5 times per day. Inhale through nose and exhale through mouth. 2. Balloon blowing twice a day. 3. 4 litres of fluid per day. 4. Chewing gum frequently 5. Avoid airconditioner and fan. They can irritate your tubes leading to further malfuction. Get well soon Dr Kishori