you are most likely having etd (eustachian tube dysfunction). the e-tubes are tiny ventilation and drainage tubes that run from your middle ear to the back of your throat. when you have a viral respiratory infection (colds flu) these tubes can become clogged or swollen resulting in some ear fullness/discomfort. when you blow your nose you are forcing some air up these tubes causing your ear to pop. in most cases this will resolve spontaneously in few days or a few weeks depending on the severity.
i am recovering from the flu and my ear pops every time i blow my nose. the first time was painful. what is this?