Ear Discomfort and Unusual Sounds When Swallowing

Q: Ear Discomfort and Unusual Sounds When Swallowing

Hello： It may be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction. <br>If discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. <br>Wishing you safety and health. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministr

Ear problems

Recently, I've been feeling discomfort in my ears when I hear others speaking, as if their voices are particularly loud.
Additionally, I notice a "clicking" sound when I swallow.
What could be the issue?

Hou Ge, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/28

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: It may be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction.
If discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/12/28

More Info

When experiencing discomfort in the ears, particularly when swallowing, and noticing that sounds seem unusually loud, it can be indicative of several underlying issues related to ear function and health. The symptoms you describe, including a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears, discomfort when hearing others speak, and a specific sound when swallowing, may suggest a condition known as Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).

The Eustachian tube is a small passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. Its primary function is to equalize air pressure in the middle ear and drain any fluid that may accumulate. When the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, discomfort, and even altered hearing. This dysfunction can occur due to various reasons, including allergies, colds, sinus infections, or changes in altitude.

The "ㄓˇ" sound you hear when swallowing could be related to the Eustachian tube opening and closing as you swallow. If the tube is blocked or not opening properly, it can create a sensation of pressure and discomfort, and you may hear unusual sounds as the air pressure changes. This can also lead to a heightened sensitivity to sound, making normal conversations feel excessively loud.

To address your concerns, it is advisable to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. The following tests may be recommended:
1. Audiometry: This test assesses your hearing ability and can help determine if there is any hearing loss associated with your symptoms.

2. Tympanometry: This test evaluates the function of the middle ear and the Eustachian tube by measuring the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure.

3. Eustachian Tube Function Test: This specific test can help assess how well your Eustachian tubes are functioning.

4. Nasal Endoscopy: If there are concerns about nasal or sinus issues contributing to your symptoms, a nasal endoscopy may be performed to visualize the nasal passages and sinuses.

In the meantime, there are some self-care strategies you can try to alleviate your symptoms:
- Nasal Decongestants: If your symptoms are related to allergies or a cold, over-the-counter nasal decongestants may help reduce swelling and improve Eustachian tube function.

- Swallowing or Yawning: These actions can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalize pressure in the ears.

- Avoiding Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and allergens that may exacerbate your symptoms.

- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help thin mucus and promote better drainage from the Eustachian tubes.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction can lead to complications such as fluid accumulation in the middle ear, which may require further intervention. In some cases, if conservative measures do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered to improve Eustachian tube function.

In summary, the discomfort and unusual sounds you are experiencing when swallowing may be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction. A thorough evaluation by an ENT specialist will help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options to alleviate your symptoms and restore normal ear function.

Similar Q&A

Discomfort When Swallowing: Understanding Ear and Throat Issues

Hello Doctor, last November I was diagnosed with sudden sensorineural hearing loss in my left ear. After receiving intratympanic injections, my hearing has recovered. However, since the last injection, I have experienced a loud popping sound in my left ear when swallowing, accomp...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is a normal physiological phenomenon to hear sounds in the ears when swallowing saliva. If there is no significant feeling of ear fullness, you may observe yourself for now. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolary...

Sounds in Ears When Swallowing: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello: I experience a sound in my ear when I swallow. What could be the possible cause? How should it be treated? Thank you.

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Wade, Hello, it may be due to Eustachian tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx and opens during swallowing to equalize pressure in the middle ear. Dysfunction of this tube may lead to abnormal sounds. Most cases tend to improve nat...

Understanding Ear Noises When Swallowing: Causes and Solutions

About three years ago, I started experiencing symptoms where my right ear makes a gurgling sound when swallowing food or saliva. After about half a month of treatment, the symptoms recurred a year later and took about a month to resolve. Since then, it has occurred approximately ...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Mr. Ah La: Your issue sounds like an obstruction of the Eustachian tube. Performing the Valsalva maneuver, which involves pinching your nose and blowing gently, may likely improve your condition. You can also seek treatment at the China Medical University Hospital or Taichung Vet...

Unusual Sounds in Your Ear: What Could It Mean?

Dr. Hsu, recently every time I yawn or swallow, I hear a few clicking sounds in my right ear (this has been happening for over a week). However, there is no pain, and it doesn't feel like water is trapped inside, nor does it feel like the pressure sensation associated with t...

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your inquiry, the possible scenarios are as follows: First, the sound you hear could be due to the opening of the Eustachian tube, which is particularly noticeable when yawning, swallowing, or blowing air. Second, there may be some earwax in the external aud...