Ear Congestion: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Q: Ear Congestion: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

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 sensation

Hello Doctor: When I ride in a car on mountain roads, I experience a sensation of fullness in both ears (decreased hearing), which returns to normal within about an hour.
Occasionally, while taking the MRT, I suddenly experience tinnitus (less frequent).
At home, sitting still or changing positions (bending down, turning my head) can also lead to brief episodes of tinnitus (very rare).
After using headphones (at home), I often feel slight pain, pressure, and a sensation of foreign body in my eardrum (hearing is not affected).
The pain subsides over time, but the pressure and discomfort from the sensation of a foreign body can last for a while (from a few hours to a few days).
Sometimes, I also feel a sensation of fluid in my ear (less frequent).
I use headphones for no more than 2 hours a day, with each session not exceeding 90 minutes, and sometimes only for 30 minutes.
Both open and closed headphones have been used, and I have experienced the above issues with both.
Hearing tests have shown no problems.
The doctor prescribed a nasal spray and medication to relieve neurovascular symptoms, but I feel they have not been effective.
Is the sensation of fullness and foreign body feeling what is commonly referred to as "pressure"? Could it be an issue with the Eustachian tube? Thank you.

Xiao Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/15

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 (like the common cold) or 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, often due to unclean water or improper ear cleaning, leading to inflammation.
c) Otitis externa.
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 you respond to sounds by pressing 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 pure tone audiometry, it is advisable to get checked at a hospital 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 outcomes.
Wishing you safety and health.

Reply Date: 2022/04/15

More Info

Ear congestion, often described as a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears, can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and potential solutions is crucial, especially for individuals who may be affected during activities like flying, driving in mountainous areas, or even while using headphones.

Causes of Ear Congestion
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure. When this tube becomes blocked or fails to open properly, it can lead to a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears. This dysfunction can be triggered by allergies, colds, sinus infections, or changes in altitude.

2. Allergies and Sinus Issues: Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, leading to congestion. Sinus infections can also contribute to this sensation due to increased mucus production and pressure.

3. Middle Ear Conditions: Conditions like otitis media (middle ear infection) can cause fluid buildup, leading to a feeling of fullness. Although you mentioned that hearing tests have shown no issues, it’s essential to consider that sometimes fluid can be present without significant hearing loss.

4. Environmental Factors: Rapid changes in altitude, such as during mountain driving or flying, can cause temporary ear congestion. The pressure changes can lead to discomfort and a feeling of fullness until the Eustachian tubes equalize the pressure.

5. Use of Earphones: Prolonged use of headphones, especially if they create a seal in the ear canal, can lead to discomfort, pressure, and a sensation of fullness. This can be exacerbated by the volume level or the type of earphones used.

Symptoms
The symptoms you described, including a feeling of fullness, mild pain, and a sensation of liquid in the ear, are common indicators of Eustachian tube dysfunction or other ear-related issues. The transient nature of your symptoms, particularly when changing positions or during specific activities, aligns with the behavior of Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Nasal Decongestants: If allergies or sinus congestion are contributing to your symptoms, using a nasal decongestant spray may help reduce inflammation and open the Eustachian tubes. However, these should be used sparingly to avoid rebound congestion.

2. Eustachian Tube Exercises: Techniques such as the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose and gently blowing) can help equalize pressure in the ears. This may provide temporary relief during activities that cause congestion.

3. Avoiding Irritants: Reducing exposure to allergens and irritants, such as smoke or strong odors, can help minimize symptoms. If you suspect allergies, consider consulting an allergist for testing and management options.

4. Headphone Use: Limit the duration of headphone use and ensure that they fit properly. Consider using open-back headphones that allow for better air circulation, which may help alleviate pressure.

5. Consultation with Specialists: If symptoms persist despite these measures, it may be beneficial to consult an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for a thorough evaluation. They can assess for any underlying conditions that may not have been identified in previous examinations.

6. Hydration and Humidification: Staying well-hydrated and using a humidifier can help keep the mucous membranes moist, potentially easing congestion.

Conclusion
Ear congestion can be a multifaceted issue, often related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, allergies, or environmental factors. While your hearing appears normal, the discomfort you experience warrants further investigation if it continues. Implementing the suggested strategies may provide relief, but seeking specialized care is advisable for persistent or worsening symptoms.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions for Musicians

Hello, doctor! I am a music major student, specializing in the flute, and I have been involved in music for over ten years! Naturally, spending two to three hours practicing in a small practice room has become our daily routine. In the past year or two, I have occasionally experi...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Common issues related to eustachian tube dysfunction or external auditory canal problems can occur. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination. Wishing you health and safety. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Departmen...

Understanding Ear Congestion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a feeling of fullness and pressure in my ears for the past three months, occasionally accompanied by dizziness and headaches. I visited a clinic where I was informed that I had excessive earwax. After having it cleaned, the sensation of bloc...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if the hearing test is normal, a feeling of ear fullness is often related to dysfunction of the Eustachian tube. It is advisable to manage any nasal allergies first. If the condition persists without improvement, further medical evaluation and treatment are necessary. Than...

Understanding Ear Congestion: Causes and Remedies for Relief

Hello, doctor. Recently, after cleaning my ears, I have been feeling a sensation of blockage in my left ear. At first, I felt relief when I burped, but then it went away. What could this symptom be, and will it resolve on its own? Thank you, doctor, and Happy New Year!

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It may be related to earwax impaction or Eustachian tube dysfunction. If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for confirmation. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolar...

Understanding One-Sided Ear Congestion and Headache: Causes and Treatments

For the past month, I have been experiencing unilateral ear fullness and unilateral headache, with occasional facial numbness during severe episodes. The same side of my eye also feels pressure and swelling. The symptoms fluctuate, which is why I haven't sought medical atten...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the issues you mentioned could possibly 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 (com...