The ears feel clogged or stuffed, but hearing is normal?
Recently, I experienced a sensation in my ear that felt like it was covered by a membrane when I got up.
I visited an otolaryngologist, who examined my ears and nose but found no abnormalities.
The doctor mentioned that my Eustachian tube might be obstructed.
However, I still occasionally feel a slight pressure and mild pain in my ear, along with some discomfort and tightness below my ear.
I also saw an orthopedic doctor for shoulder and neck inflammation, but the soreness persists.
Could the ear pressure or pain be related to the shoulder and neck inflammation? When I experience shoulder and neck tension, I also feel some discomfort in my ear.
Should I return to the orthopedic doctor or the otolaryngologist for further evaluation?
Xiao C, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/30
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 (commonly referred to as sudden deafness).
3) Otitis media: a) Acute otitis media: often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (like the common cold) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be ear discharge.
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 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 a pure tone audiometry test (which requires headphones in a soundproof room where sounds are presented and you press a button in response, rather than just using a tuning fork), and if this test confirms that there is no decline in any frequency, it is unlikely to be sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
In that case, 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 early treatment tends to yield better outcomes.
Wishing you safety and good health.
Reply Date: 2023/12/30
More Info
When experiencing ear congestion, discomfort, or pain, it’s essential to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek further medical evaluation. Based on your description, it seems you have already consulted an ENT specialist who diagnosed you with eustachian tube dysfunction, which can lead to feelings of fullness or pressure in the ear. This condition occurs when the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose, becomes blocked or fails to open properly, often due to allergies, sinus infections, or changes in altitude.
The symptoms you describe—ear fullness, mild pain, and discomfort behind the ear—can indeed be associated with eustachian tube dysfunction. However, you also mentioned experiencing neck and shoulder pain, which raises the question of whether these issues could be interconnected. It is not uncommon for musculoskeletal problems, particularly in the neck and upper back, to lead to referred pain or discomfort in the ear area. The nerves that supply the ear also innervate the neck and shoulders, so tension or inflammation in these areas can manifest as ear symptoms.
Given that you have a history of shoulder and neck inflammation, it is plausible that your ongoing discomfort could be exacerbated by musculoskeletal issues. If your neck and shoulder pain are significant, they could contribute to the sensation of ear fullness or discomfort. In this case, it may be beneficial to revisit your orthopedic specialist to discuss your symptoms further. They might recommend physical therapy, pain management strategies, or other interventions to address the musculoskeletal component of your discomfort.
On the other hand, if your ear symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to return to the ENT for a follow-up. They may consider additional evaluations, such as tympanometry or audiometry, to assess the function of the eustachian tube and the status of your middle ear. If there is any indication of fluid accumulation or other abnormalities, further treatment may be necessary.
In summary, your situation may require a multidisciplinary approach. If your neck and shoulder pain are significant and impacting your quality of life, consulting with your orthopedic specialist is advisable. However, if your ear symptoms continue to be bothersome, a follow-up with your ENT is warranted. Both specialists can work together to ensure that all aspects of your health are addressed, leading to a comprehensive treatment plan that alleviates your discomfort.
In conclusion, it is essential to listen to your body and seek medical advice when symptoms persist. Whether it’s an ENT or orthopedic issue, both areas can significantly impact your overall well-being. Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare providers will help you navigate your symptoms effectively and find the appropriate treatment.
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