Ear Congestion and Popping Sounds: Causes and Treatments

Q: Ear Congestion and Popping Sounds: Causes and Treatments

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, mountain climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. <br>2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Ear fullness with a popping sound?

One day in October, after taking a shower, I noticed my ears felt clogged.
The next day, I went to a clinic for an examination.
The doctor looked into my ears and nose and said it was due to Eustachian tube dysfunction.
They prescribed medication, but it didn't help much.
I then visited two more clinics, and the diagnosis was the same.
Eventually, I decided to go to a larger hospital for further evaluation.
The doctor performed a nasopharyngoscopy and mentioned that I had excessive mucus.
They prescribed Nasonex (mometasone), Allegra (fexofenadine), and an antibiotic.
After taking the medications, I felt somewhat better, but there is still a slight feeling of fullness in my ears.
Additionally, when I nod my head or swallow, I hear a popping sound in my ears, and I feel some phlegm in my throat (without dizziness, tinnitus, or pain/itching).
What treatment should I pursue, and what should I be aware of?

003, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/31

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, mountain 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, the ear may discharge fluid or pus.
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 contaminated water or improper ear cleaning.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication after consulting a healthcare provider.
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 undergone pure tone audiometry, it is advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation to rule out sudden hearing loss.
The golden treatment window for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is within two weeks, and early treatment yields better results.
If symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun, Head of the ENT Department, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/12/31

More Info

Ear congestion and popping sounds can be quite bothersome and are often related to issues with the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. When this tube becomes blocked or does not function properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, as well as popping sounds when swallowing or moving the head.

In your case, it seems that you have already consulted with multiple healthcare providers, and they have identified Eustachian tube dysfunction as a likely cause of your symptoms. This condition can be exacerbated by allergies, sinus infections, or excessive mucus production, which appears to be the case for you given the diagnosis of excessive nasal mucus.

Here are some potential causes and treatments for your symptoms:
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This is the most common cause of ear congestion and popping sounds. It can occur due to inflammation, allergies, or infections. Treatments may include:
- Nasal corticosteroids: Medications like Nasonex (mometasone) can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, potentially improving drainage and function.

- Decongestants: These can help reduce nasal congestion and promote Eustachian tube function. However, they should be used cautiously and not for extended periods.

- Antihistamines: If allergies are contributing to your symptoms, antihistamines may help reduce mucus production and inflammation.

2. Mucus Management: Since you mentioned having a sensation of phlegm in your throat, managing mucus can be beneficial. Staying well-hydrated, using saline nasal sprays, and considering expectorants may help thin mucus and promote drainage.

3. Valsalva Maneuver: This technique involves closing your mouth, pinching your nose shut, and gently blowing to equalize pressure in the ears. It can sometimes help relieve the feeling of fullness and popping sounds.

4. Avoiding Irritants: If allergies are a contributing factor, try to avoid known allergens, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. Keeping your living environment clean and using air purifiers can also help.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Since you do not have dizziness, ear pain, or tinnitus, it is a good sign that your condition may be less severe. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to follow up with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.

6. Follow-Up Care: Given that you have already seen multiple doctors, it may be beneficial to return to an ENT specialist for a more comprehensive evaluation, especially if your symptoms do not improve with the current treatment plan. They may consider additional diagnostic tests, such as audiometry or tympanometry, to assess your middle ear function.

In conclusion, while Eustachian tube dysfunction is likely the cause of your symptoms, effective management often requires a combination of medications, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly further medical evaluation. If your symptoms persist or you experience any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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