In a nutshell
Repeated clicking or fluttering in the ear can arise from small muscles in the middle ear. The sound can be regular or irregular and can occasionally even be heard by others.
Why does it happen?
One possible cause is involuntary contraction of the tensor tympani or stapedius. It mechanically changes the tension of the eardrum and ossicular chain. A clicking sound does not prove this cause, because palate movements and other processes can produce similar sounds.
Frequency
Muscle-related recurrent clicking in the ear is a rarely described cause of ear noises. It is not the same as every crackle during pressure equalization.
Frequency is a qualitative description, not your individual probability.
Is it normal?
A possible mechanical source of sound, not a definitive self-diagnosis.
When to seek advice
Persistent or troublesome clicking should be assessed by an ear, nose, and throat specialist; sudden hearing loss needs prompt examination.
Does this happen to you?
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Sources (1)
- Middle Ear Myoclonus: Two Informative Cases and a Systematic Discussion of Myogenic Tinnitus (opens a new tab)
Middle-ear muscle activity is a possible cause of clicking sounds; different muscular causes and diagnostic uncertainties must be considered.
Editorial update: . AI-assisted research and editing; not individually reviewed by a physician. How we research
