Ear Pressure Sounds: Causes and Solutions for Ear Discomfort

Q: Ear Pressure Sounds: Causes and Solutions for Ear Discomfort

Hello, 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. <br>3) O

There is a strange sound when blowing air into the ear?

Hello Doctor, I frequently experience episodes of otitis media and often visit the clinic for follow-ups, but my hearing is normal (I have had my hearing tested at the hospital).
Recently, my right ear (the one that hurts the most) makes a popping sound when I blow air through my mouth, and I feel a sensation of something being pushed up.
Additionally, the area just below the earlobe, about a finger's width from the chin, protrudes when I blow air.
This occurs every time I blow air through my mouth and has not improved; sometimes it is accompanied by tinnitus, which is quite uncomfortable.
I would like to ask the doctor if this could affect my hearing and if there are any methods to alleviate these symptoms.

Xiao Ping, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/12

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, 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 (such as colds) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be ear discharge.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: This usually occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can become inflamed due to unclean water or improper ear cleaning.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication after consulting a physician.
If you have already undergone pure tone audiometry (which requires headphones in a soundproof room, where sounds are presented and you respond by pressing a button, rather than just using a tuning fork), and it has been confirmed that you do not have sudden sensorineural hearing loss, then medication may suffice.
However, if you have not had a pure tone audiometry test, it is recommended to visit a hospital for evaluation to rule out sudden hearing loss.
The golden treatment window for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is two weeks, and early treatment yields better results.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun, Head of the ENT Department, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/12/12

More Info

Understanding ear pressure sounds and the discomfort associated with them can be quite complex, especially when considering the various underlying conditions that may contribute to these sensations. Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing symptoms related to your middle ear, particularly in the context of recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media) and possibly Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Causes of Ear Pressure Sounds
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure. If this tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, as well as sounds like popping or clicking when you swallow or yawn. This dysfunction can be exacerbated by allergies, colds, or sinus infections.

2. Middle Ear Infections: Frequent middle ear infections can lead to inflammation and fluid buildup in the middle ear, which may cause discomfort and abnormal sounds. Even if your hearing tests are normal, the presence of fluid or inflammation can still affect how sound is transmitted through the ear.

3. Barotrauma: This occurs when there is a significant difference in pressure between the inside of the ear and the external environment, often experienced during changes in altitude, such as flying or diving. It can lead to discomfort and sounds in the ear.

4. Earwax Buildup: While you mentioned that your hearing is normal, sometimes earwax can cause pressure sensations and sounds if it is pressing against the eardrum.

Impact on Hearing
The symptoms you describe, such as the popping sounds and the sensation of something being pushed in your ear, can indeed affect your hearing temporarily. If the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to a feeling of muffled hearing or even temporary hearing loss. However, if your hearing tests are consistently normal, it suggests that there is no permanent damage to your auditory system.

Solutions and Management
1. Eustachian Tube Exercises: Techniques such as swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose and gently blowing) can help open the Eustachian tube and equalize pressure. However, be cautious with this maneuver, especially if you experience pain.

2. Nasal Decongestants: If your symptoms are related to allergies or nasal congestion, over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines may help reduce swelling in the Eustachian tube, allowing for better drainage and pressure equalization.

3. Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can help relieve nasal congestion and promote Eustachian tube function. A hot shower or a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head can be effective.

4. Avoiding Irritants: If allergies are a contributing factor, try to avoid known allergens and irritants, such as smoke or strong odors, which can exacerbate your symptoms.

5. Consultation with an ENT Specialist: Since you have a history of recurrent middle ear infections, it may be beneficial to consult with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies, to assess the condition of your middle ear and Eustachian tube.

6. Consideration of Surgical Options: In cases of chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction or recurrent otitis media, surgical options such as tympanostomy tubes may be considered to help ventilate the middle ear and prevent fluid accumulation.

Conclusion
While your symptoms can be uncomfortable and concerning, they do not necessarily indicate permanent damage to your hearing. Addressing the underlying causes, such as Eustachian tube dysfunction or recurrent infections, is key to alleviating your discomfort. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider and possibly an ENT specialist will help ensure that you receive the appropriate care and management for your condition.

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