Ear Vibrations and Hearing Issues: What You Need to Know

Ear may experience sound distortion vibrations - hearing issues?

Hello, Doctor: Before asking my question, I have done some research.
Although there are cases similar to mine, my situation is still somewhat different, so I would like to ask here.
I will first summarize my nasal and ear medical history.
I have always had nasal allergies, and sometimes I experience continuous sneezing.
When I was younger, I didn't understand, so I would often blow my nose very forcefully when I was congested, to the point where I could feel my eardrum moving! Recently, I have been troubled by a specific issue: when I lie flat and hear sounds, my right ear produces a distorted sound, and sometimes it even hurts, while my left ear does not have this issue.
Initially, I didn't pay much attention to it and let it go on for years (after all, the opportunity to hear sounds while lying down is not frequent; I could just turn off the TV or music).
I thought it might just be an overly sensitive hearing issue.
However, recently, I have occasionally experienced this while standing as well.
It doesn't happen with normal environmental sounds or conversations, but with loud noises, such as hearing the garbage truck's music when taking out the trash, I sometimes feel like my eardrum is vibrating continuously with a distorted sensation, even after the music stops.
I have been monitoring my pure tone audiometry for the past two years, and both air and bone conduction tests show no issues.
I would like to ask what kind of examinations I should undergo (for example, eustachian tube function tests, tympanometry, etc.)?

rainbow73, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/10

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

It is recommended that you undergo testing when you experience episodes of auditory distortion, as intermittent hearing symptoms are often caused by Eustachian tube dysfunction.
It is advisable to at least perform tympanometry.
Normal air-bone conduction in pure tone audiometry at least indicates that your auditory nerve has not degenerated.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/05/10

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding your ear issues. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying conditions, particularly involving your ears and possibly your Eustachian tube function.

First, let's address the symptoms you've mentioned. The sensation of "broken sound" or distortion in your right ear, especially when lying down or in response to loud noises, could indicate a few possibilities. One common issue is Eustachian tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps equalize pressure in the ear. If this tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness, discomfort, or even pain in the ear, as well as auditory distortions when exposed to sound.

Given your history of nasal allergies and frequent sneezing, it's possible that inflammation or congestion in the nasal passages could be affecting the Eustachian tube's ability to open and close properly. This could explain why you experience these symptoms more acutely when lying down or in response to loud sounds, as changes in position and pressure can exacerbate the dysfunction.

You mentioned that you have had pure tone audiometry tests that showed normal results for both air and bone conduction. This is a good sign, as it indicates that there is no significant conductive hearing loss. However, it does not rule out issues related to the Eustachian tube or other middle ear problems.

To further investigate your symptoms, I recommend the following steps:
1. Eustachian Tube Function Testing: This can include tests such as tympanometry, which assesses the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. It can help determine if there is any dysfunction in the Eustachian tube.

2. Acoustic Reflex Testing: This test measures the reflexive response of the muscles in the middle ear to loud sounds, which can provide insight into the functioning of the auditory system.

3. Impedance Audiometry: This test evaluates the middle ear's ability to transmit sound and can help identify any issues with the eardrum or the ossicles (the tiny bones in the middle ear).

4. Consultation with an ENT Specialist: Given your ongoing symptoms and history of nasal allergies, it may be beneficial to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan, if they suspect any structural issues.

5. Management of Allergies: Since you have a history of nasal allergies, managing these symptoms could also help alleviate some of the ear-related issues. This may involve the use of antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or other allergy treatments.

6. Avoiding Loud Noises: While you are experiencing these symptoms, it would be wise to avoid exposure to loud noises, as this can exacerbate your symptoms and potentially lead to further auditory issues.

In conclusion, while your hearing tests have shown normal results, the symptoms you are experiencing warrant further investigation into the function of your Eustachian tube and middle ear. Consulting with an ENT specialist and undergoing the recommended tests will provide a clearer picture of your condition and help guide appropriate treatment options. Remember, early intervention is key in managing ear-related issues effectively. Wishing you the best in your journey towards better ear health!

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