Clicking Sounds in Ear When Swallowing: Is Pain Related to Allergies?

Q: Clicking Sounds in Ear When Swallowing: Is Pain Related to Allergies?

Hello RITA, <br>The issues you mentioned could be due to： 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction： This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. <br>2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

There is a popping sound in my ear when I swallow, and recently I have been experiencing pain in my right ear?

Hello, I experience a popping sound in my ear whenever I swallow saliva, and sometimes after yawning, it improves for a while before the sound returns.
This has been happening for some time, and I have not had a cold during this period.
(I have not mentioned this issue to a doctor or had my ear canal examined.) Usually, my ear does not hurt, but recently, I have started to feel some pain in my right ear.
I would like to know if this could be related to the nasal allergy medication I have been taking, or should I see an otolaryngologist for an examination?

RITA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/04

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello RITA,
The issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over.
2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
3) Otitis media: a) Acute otitis media: Often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (like colds) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be ear discharge.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: This is usually due to a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can become inflamed due to contaminated water or improper ear cleaning.
4) Earwax impaction or external ear canal infection.

All of the above conditions can be appropriately managed with medication through medical consultation.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/12/04

More Info

The clicking sounds in your ear when swallowing, along with the recent onset of pain in your right ear, can be concerning symptoms. These issues may be related to several underlying conditions, and it is essential to understand the possible causes to determine the best course of action.

One of the most common reasons for experiencing clicking sounds in the ear during swallowing is related to the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This tube helps equalize pressure in the ear and drain fluid. If the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to a sensation of fullness, clicking sounds, and even pain. This dysfunction can occur due to allergies, colds, sinus infections, or changes in altitude, which can cause inflammation or blockage of the Eustachian tube.

In your case, since you mentioned using nasal allergy medication, it is possible that the medication could be affecting the Eustachian tube's function. Some antihistamines can lead to dryness in the nasal passages and throat, which may contribute to Eustachian tube dysfunction. However, it is also important to consider that if you have been experiencing nasal congestion or other allergy symptoms, this could be causing the clicking sounds and pain as well.

The pain you are experiencing in your right ear could also be indicative of other conditions, such as:
1. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): This condition can cause pain and may be associated with fluid buildup in the middle ear, leading to pressure changes and clicking sounds.

2. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: As mentioned earlier, this can lead to pressure imbalances in the ear, resulting in discomfort and clicking sounds during swallowing.

3. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Issues with the jaw joint can sometimes cause referred pain to the ear and may also produce clicking sounds.

4. Earwax Buildup: Excessive earwax can block the ear canal, leading to discomfort and unusual sounds when swallowing or moving the jaw.

Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms for some time and that the pain has recently developed, it is advisable to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. An ENT can perform a thorough examination, which may include an otoscopic examination of the ear, a hearing test, and possibly imaging studies if needed. This will help rule out any serious conditions and provide a clear diagnosis.

In the meantime, you may want to avoid any activities that could exacerbate your symptoms, such as exposure to loud noises or environments that could worsen your allergies. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier may also help alleviate some discomfort.

In summary, while the clicking sounds in your ear when swallowing and the associated pain could be related to your allergy medication, they may also indicate other underlying issues. A visit to an ENT specialist is recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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