A poof in the ear from a pinched nose and a puff of air could lead to damage to the eardrum, and further testing is needed to clarify if there is any harm.
The deeper part of the external auditory canal is the eardrum, which is also the outer wall of the middle ear cavity. The middle ear maintains a dynamic and fluid relationship with the nasopharynx via the Eustachian tube. Opening of the Eustachian tube can occur during swallowing, chewing and involuntary states. Under normal conditions, pinching the nose and blowing air causes airflow to open the Eustachian tube and enter the middle ear cavity. When the air pressure in the middle ear cavity is large enough, the eardrum can be lifted up to produce a puffing sound.
Normally, the tympanic membrane can be restored by balancing the air pressure in the Eustachian tube after the tympanic membrane is inflated. When the puffing force is too strong and causes a perforation of the eardrum, the middle ear cavity will be connected to the external auditory canal, which will cause discomfort such as earache and tinnitus, or may lead to hearing loss, middle ear infections and other adverse reactions.
When you need to pinch the nose and puff, pay attention to the strength, produce a poof sound, if the above discomfort occurs, you can actively consult a doctor for a systematic examination to clarify the condition.