Ear Pressure Changes: Risks and Remedies for Ear Health

Sudden increase in pressure on the eardrum?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask a few questions.
Q1: In the past, when I was eating, I would hear a sound of air movement in one ear, and there would be a popping sound while chewing, like bubbles bursting.
Later, I visited a clinic, and the doctor said it was an issue with the Eustachian tube.
After having earwax removed and taking medication, the condition was resolved.
However, now I have a strange situation where, when I sleep on my side and then lift my head off the pillow in the morning, I feel a sensation as if my ear is changing from a vacuum state, and this happens in both ears.
This did not occur before.
Currently, I don't feel much of a problem, but I would like to know if long-term changes in ear pressure like this could lead to damage to the eardrum.
Q2: The doctor advised me to use a hairdryer on a cool setting to dry any moisture in my ears after showering.
However, I was concerned that my earwax might prevent the cool air from drying effectively, so I used a hot (high power) setting instead, blowing warm air into my ears until they felt warm.
Does the temperature of the air have any effect on the eardrum? Additionally, the situation in Q1 started occurring after I began this practice.
Is it necessary to only use cool air?
Q3: If I continue to use a hairdryer directed at my ears for an extended period, could the sound of the airflow and the motor of the hairdryer negatively affect my hearing? Are there any other recommended methods to remove moisture from inside the ears?
Thank you, Doctor.
I hope you can clarify my concerns.
Thank you!

Jeff, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/03

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, may cause ear discharge.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: usually occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, leading to inflammation due to contaminated water or improper ear cleaning.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication from a healthcare provider.
If you have already undergone pure tone audiometry (which requires headphones in a soundproof room, where sounds prompt you to press a button, rather than just using a tuning fork), and it confirms 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 advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation to rule out sudden hearing loss, as the optimal treatment window for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is within two weeks, and early treatment yields better results.
Regarding Q2 and Q3, I would recommend using a clean cotton swab to gently absorb water from the ear canal as another good option.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/03

More Info

Understanding ear pressure changes and their implications for ear health is crucial, especially for individuals who experience symptoms related to the ear, such as sounds during chewing or changes in pressure upon waking. Let's address your questions one by one.

Q1: Long-term Effects of Sudden Ear Pressure Changes
Experiencing a sensation of pressure changes in the ear, especially when transitioning from a lying position to standing, can be related to the function of the Eustachian tube, which helps equalize pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere. If this tube does not function properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure, and in some cases, it may contribute to discomfort or even pain.
While occasional pressure changes are typically not harmful, frequent or severe pressure fluctuations can potentially lead to complications, including damage to the eardrum (tympanic membrane) or middle ear structures. If the Eustachian tube is not functioning well, it can lead to fluid accumulation in the middle ear, which may cause infections or other issues. Therefore, if you notice persistent symptoms, it is advisable to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.

Q2: Effects of Hair Dryer Temperature on Ear Health
Using a hair dryer to dry your ears after a shower can be effective, but it is essential to be cautious about the temperature. While cool air is generally recommended to avoid overheating the ear canal, using hot air can pose risks. Excessive heat can potentially damage the delicate skin of the ear canal and may lead to irritation or inflammation.
If you find that cool air does not effectively dry your ears, consider using a lower heat setting or maintaining a safe distance between the hair dryer and your ear. It is also important to ensure that the air is directed away from the eardrum to minimize any risk of damage. If you continue to experience issues with moisture in the ears, you might want to explore other methods, such as tilting your head to allow gravity to assist in draining water or using a towel to gently dry the outer ear.

Q3: Long-term Exposure to Hair Dryer Noise and Hearing Health
Regarding the noise from the hair dryer, prolonged exposure to loud sounds can indeed have a detrimental effect on hearing health. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that sounds above 85 decibels can be harmful if exposure is prolonged. Hair dryers can vary in noise level, but if you find that the sound is loud, it may be wise to limit the duration of exposure or consider using ear protection.

For drying your ears, alternatives to using a hair dryer include using a towel to gently absorb moisture or employing ear drops designed to help evaporate water trapped in the ear canal. Additionally, you can try tilting your head to one side and gently pulling on your earlobe to help facilitate drainage.

In summary, while occasional pressure changes in the ear are generally not a cause for concern, persistent symptoms warrant medical attention. When drying your ears, prioritize safety by using cool air and being mindful of noise levels. If you have ongoing issues with moisture in your ears or pressure changes, consulting an ENT specialist is advisable for tailored advice and treatment options.

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