Low-Frequency Sounds in the Right Ear: Causes and Solutions

There is a low-frequency rumbling sound in the right ear when hearing?

Hello Doctor: I am experiencing metallic sounds, the crinkling of plastic bags, and the clanging of pots and pans in my right ear.
Occasionally, I can even hear other people talking, and there is a loud "thumping" feedback in my ear.
When the sounds are continuous, I experience a series of intense "thump-thump-thump" sensations in my right ear.
This also occurs when I quickly insert and remove my hand from my ear or scratch the right side of my scalp.
This situation is very distressing and has affected my ability to concentrate, leading to feelings of depression and impacting my daily routine.
The "thumping" sound resembles the sensation of someone blowing air into my ear, which then resonates throughout my head.

Currently, I can feel vibrations in my ear when I speak, and at the moment I pause while talking, there is a loud thump in my right ear.
Even when I am not speaking, I still feel vibrations in my ear.
It seems like there is tension in my eardrum? However, when I consulted a doctor, he mentioned that muscle tension typically produces clicking or dripping sounds, while I experience low-frequency thumping.
I have been diagnosed with Eustachian tube dysfunction, but I do not have ear pain or a feeling of fullness, only slight ear congestion.
During this time, I have taken allergy medication, but puncturing my eardrum has not improved the situation.

I have been following up with an ENT specialist for four and a half months, and my hearing test (conducted last month) was normal.
Tympanometry, acoustic neuroma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma have all been ruled out.
Recently, I have also started experiencing mild symptoms in my left ear, which is causing me significant anxiety.
What should I do? Thank you, Doctor.

HC, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/26

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if it has been confirmed that "I have returned to the ENT department for a follow-up after four months, and the hearing test was normal (conducted last month), with tympanometry, neuroma, and nasopharyngeal cancer ruled out," it indicates that relevant ENT examinations and imaging studies have been performed and no issues were found.
However, if symptoms persist as described—"This condition has made it difficult for me to concentrate, has caused low mood, and affects my daily routine (the buzzing sound is like someone blowing air into my ear, which then resonates throughout my head)"—it may be advisable to consult a psychiatrist to rule out psychological factors such as anxiety and stress.

Reply Date: 2022/07/26

More Info

Understanding low-frequency sounds in the ear, particularly when accompanied by sensations such as pressure, buzzing, or feedback, can be quite distressing. Your description of hearing metallic sounds, the noise of plastic bags, and the sensation of your ear vibrating during speech suggests a complex interaction between auditory perception and possibly underlying physiological conditions.

From your account, it seems that you have been experiencing these symptoms for some time, and despite undergoing various examinations, including hearing tests and tympanometry, no definitive cause has been identified. The diagnosis of Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is significant here. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure in the ear. When this tube is blocked or does not function properly, it can lead to a sensation of fullness, pressure, and abnormal auditory perceptions, such as the low-frequency sounds you describe.

The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the "roaring" or "buzzing" sounds, can be attributed to several factors:
1. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: As mentioned, if the Eustachian tube is not opening and closing properly, it can lead to pressure imbalances in the middle ear. This dysfunction can cause sounds to be perceived differently, leading to the sensation of low-frequency noises.

2. Muscle Tension: While you mentioned that a physician indicated muscle tension typically produces different sounds, it is still possible that muscle spasms in the middle ear (specifically the tensor tympani or stapedius muscles) could contribute to your symptoms. These muscles can react to stress or tension, leading to abnormal auditory sensations.

3. Auditory Processing Issues: Sometimes, the brain's interpretation of sound can be altered due to various factors, including stress, anxiety, or even fatigue. This could explain why you feel a vibration or hear sounds that are not present in the environment.

4. Psychological Factors: Given that your symptoms have caused significant anxiety and impacted your daily life, it might be beneficial to consider psychological factors. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate auditory symptoms, leading to a cycle of discomfort and heightened awareness of sounds.

Given that you have already consulted with an ENT specialist and undergone various tests, here are some recommendations for further steps:
- Follow-Up with an ENT Specialist: Since your symptoms have persisted and even begun to affect your left ear, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion from another ENT specialist. They may offer different insights or suggest additional diagnostic tests.

- Consider Audiological Rehabilitation: If your hearing tests are normal, working with an audiologist may help. They can provide strategies for managing your symptoms, including sound therapy or counseling.

- Explore Stress Management Techniques: Since your symptoms are affecting your mental well-being, exploring stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) could be beneficial. These approaches can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall quality of life.

- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating your condition.

In conclusion, while the symptoms you are experiencing are undoubtedly distressing, a multifaceted approach that includes medical evaluation, psychological support, and audiological rehabilitation may provide relief. It is essential to continue advocating for your health and seeking the appropriate care to address these complex auditory issues.

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