My *theory* is that this is somehow connected to the nerves or muscles in the neck. When we are moving around they tighten/tense and then the ears are pulled along with them.

My symptoms are usually totally abated when I am lying down. I also feel 'ok' when I am sitting or not exerting. But, once I'm up moving, talking, riding a bike, etc, they flood over. Not always, but sometimes.

Of course, I can also be sitting there reading a book and suddenly my ears are plugged shut inexplicably.

Do you have ear crackling when you swallow or yawn? Are you able to pop them open so hard that it feels like a suction cup coming off of a piece of glass? Again, this stuff goes away when I lay down.

I am stuck in China for a few more months, but when I return my plan is: visiting a Chiropractor, and visiting a massage therapist. Until them I am stuck icing, self-massaging, and taking antibiotics and steroids for my 'ear infection'.