Can Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy Cause Tinnitus and Ear Congestion?

Tinnitus and ear blockage?

Hello, I would like to ask a question.
I have a history of nasal allergies, but I haven't had a relapse for about six months to a year.
One day, I suddenly experienced a loud ringing in my left ear, along with a heavy sensation of ear fullness, making it almost impossible to hear external sounds.
After seeing a doctor, I was initially told that it might be due to blowing my nose too forcefully.
However, the ringing became progressively louder.
After seeing another doctor, I was informed that it could be due to enlarged nasal turbinates potentially obstructing the Eustachian tube.
I have been on medication for two months, and the ear fullness and tinnitus have decreased.
Can nasal turbinate enlargement really cause these ear symptoms? I still cannot hear clearly.
If this is indeed the cause, will surgery resolve the ear issues? Thank you for taking the time to answer!

lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/23

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology

Hello, nasal allergies and acute rhinitis (common cold) can cause swelling of the inferior turbinates and the mucosa of the nasopharynx.
This can easily lead to blockage of the Eustachian tube opening, resulting in negative pressure in the middle ear and even fluid accumulation.
Therefore, if you still have difficulty hearing after treatment, you should consult an otolaryngologist for a detailed examination.
If necessary, this may include pure tone audiometry and tympanometry to determine if surgery is required.
Best wishes.
Hu Ksin.

Reply Date: 2004/08/23

More Info

Nasal turbinate hypertrophy can indeed lead to symptoms such as tinnitus and ear congestion. The turbinates are structures within the nasal cavity that help to warm and humidify the air we breathe. When these structures become enlarged, often due to chronic allergies or inflammation, they can obstruct airflow and affect the function of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose. This obstruction can lead to a sensation of fullness in the ears, decreased hearing, and even tinnitus, which is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears.

In your case, it sounds like the nasal congestion and the resultant pressure changes in the Eustachian tube may have contributed to your ear symptoms. The initial diagnosis of nasal congestion due to forceful nose blowing is plausible, as this can create pressure changes that affect the ears. However, if the nasal turbinates are significantly enlarged, they can indeed block the Eustachian tube, leading to fluid buildup in the middle ear and causing the symptoms you described.

The fact that you have experienced some relief with medication suggests that the underlying inflammation may be responding to treatment. Common treatments for turbinate hypertrophy include nasal corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation, and decongestants, which can help to relieve nasal congestion. If these conservative measures are not effective, surgical options such as turbinate reduction may be considered.
Surgery can help alleviate the obstruction caused by enlarged turbinates, potentially restoring normal Eustachian tube function and relieving ear symptoms. However, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to determine the best course of action based on your specific condition. They may perform a nasal endoscopy to assess the extent of turbinate hypertrophy and evaluate the condition of your nasal passages and Eustachian tubes.

In summary, nasal turbinate hypertrophy can indeed lead to ear symptoms such as tinnitus and ear congestion. If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgical intervention may be a viable option to address the underlying issue. It is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation.

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