Why Do My Ears Make Sounds When I Swallow? Possible Causes Explained

Q: Why Do My Ears Make Sounds When I Swallow? Possible Causes Explained

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>A rapid decrease in body weight may also contr

Hearing sounds in the ear when swallowing saliva?

I have been experiencing this issue for about six months.
It started last July when I woke up one night with this problem.
After returning from a trip abroad in October, I visited the ENT department at a hospital, and after examination, they found no issues and did not prescribe any medication.
They suggested that it might be related to weight loss and that gaining weight could improve the situation.
However, by March of this year, I was still experiencing the same issue, where I hear a popping sound in my ear when I swallow saliva, which seems to be related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Could you please advise on what might be the underlying issue?

Fang Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/10

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.
A rapid decrease in body weight may also contribute.
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 discharge from the ear.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: 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 healthcare provider.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/03/10

More Info

Experiencing sounds in your ears when swallowing can be quite concerning, and it’s understandable that you’re seeking clarity on this issue. The phenomenon you’re describing is often related to the function of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. When you swallow, the muscles around the Eustachian tube contract, allowing air to enter the middle ear and equalize pressure. If there’s a dysfunction in this mechanism, it can lead to abnormal sounds, such as popping or crackling noises, which might be what you’re experiencing.

Possible Causes of Ear Sounds When Swallowing
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD): This is the most common cause of sounds in the ears during swallowing. ETD can occur due to allergies, colds, sinus infections, or even changes in altitude. When the Eustachian tube doesn’t open properly, it can create a vacuum effect in the middle ear, leading to sounds when swallowing.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): You mentioned a possible connection to GERD. Acid reflux can irritate the throat and Eustachian tube, potentially leading to inflammation and dysfunction. This irritation can cause abnormal sensations or sounds in the ears, especially when swallowing.

3. Middle Ear Issues: Although your previous examinations indicated that your ears were normal, conditions like fluid buildup in the middle ear (otitis media) can also cause sounds during swallowing. This fluid can create a sensation of fullness and lead to unusual noises.

4. Changes in Weight: As you noted, your doctor suggested that weight fluctuations might play a role. Rapid weight loss can affect the body’s overall fluid balance and potentially impact the Eustachian tube's function. Conversely, weight gain could help normalize this function, but this is more of a secondary effect rather than a direct cause.

5. Muscle Spasms: Sometimes, spasms of the muscles around the Eustachian tube can lead to sounds when swallowing. This can be related to stress or anxiety, which can cause muscle tension throughout the body.

Recommendations
Given that you have already consulted with an ENT specialist and received a clean bill of health, here are some steps you might consider:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur and any associated factors (like diet, stress levels, or physical activity). This can help identify patterns or triggers.

- Manage GERD: If you suspect GERD is contributing to your symptoms, consider dietary changes, such as avoiding spicy or acidic foods, and consult with a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and management.

- Nasal Decongestion: If you have allergies or sinus issues, using saline nasal sprays or decongestants may help alleviate Eustachian tube dysfunction.

- Stay Hydrated: Keeping well-hydrated can help maintain mucosal health and may assist in the proper function of the Eustachian tube.

- Follow-Up with an ENT: If symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to return to your ENT for further evaluation. They might consider additional tests, such as tympanometry, to assess middle ear function or imaging studies if structural issues are suspected.

In conclusion, while the sounds in your ears when swallowing can be attributed to several factors, Eustachian tube dysfunction is a primary suspect. Addressing any underlying conditions, such as GERD or allergies, and maintaining regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can help manage and potentially resolve your symptoms.

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