Dear Dr. Hibberd: Let me first say that I read your column every day and respect your opinions. I have a strange problem: Whenever I eat, my ears block up and I can’t hear. Do you have any idea what this could be caused by?

Answer: A plugged feeling in your ears is usually the result of a difference in air pressure in your middle ear and your outer ear. There are several conditions that could cause this feeling in an ear that appears normal. The eustachian tube connects your middle ear to the back of your nose, any dysfunction here can clog your ears. Usually, allergies, nasal congestion, and wax are common causes. However, ears blocking soon after eating might indicate some food allergy that might be causing your ears to clog up, that is if you do not already have some existing infection that is causing the eustachian tubes to swell. Make a note of the foods that are causing this and seek the advice of your medical practitioner.