the Connection Between Sinus Issues and Tinnitus

Q: the Connection Between Sinus Issues and Tinnitus

Hello： In response to your questions. <br>1. <br>Based on your situation, it is likely that you have sinusitis and chronic rhinitis. <br>When the air conditions change, it affects the mucosa and opens the sinus ostia, releasing the unpleasant odor from within, which may be your c

Rhinitis and Tinnitus

Hello, my current symptoms include tinnitus, a foul smell from my nose (without yellow discharge), and loss of smell (which has persisted for too long and is now gone).
I started treatment for left ear tinnitus at the clinic in early July, and later I noticed the foul smell from my nose.
The condition has been fluctuating; sometimes it improves and the smell is faint, while at other times it becomes stronger.
Post-nasal drip has also worsened, and the tinnitus persists.
Occasionally, I experience ear pressure changes, but I still hear a buzzing sound, which is now present in both ears.
The doctor mentioned that nasal secretions could affect the ears.
1.
Does the nasal issue fluctuate with weather changes? (For example, today my nose smells particularly foul.)
2.
Is there a connection between the inflammation of the left temporomandibular joint (which has resolved) and the tinnitus? (This inflammation started after I hit my head on the ground, and the left ear tinnitus began before it was treated.)
3.
Does the duration of treatment relate to individual constitution and lifestyle? Is it certain that I will recover, or is it necessary to achieve complete resolution? (My family advises me to stop treatment, saying that many people with ear problems do not get better, and many have nasal issues as well, suggesting that I am overreacting.)

Piao fu de mian yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/15

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

Hello: In response to your questions.
1.
Based on your situation, it is likely that you have sinusitis and chronic rhinitis.
When the air conditions change, it affects the mucosa and opens the sinus ostia, releasing the unpleasant odor from within, which may be your current condition.
2.
There is not a significant correlation between the two; if there were, it should have started at the time of your fall.
3.
The anatomical structure of the nose is very different from that of the ear.
With the advancement of endoscopy, we can almost surgically address any issues related to the nose, especially concerning sinusitis.
However, for problems related to the inner ear, we sometimes can only manage them with medication, and surgeries for the middle and outer ear can also be performed using a microscope.
I recommend that you seek assistance at a larger hospital, especially since your rhinitis may have already affected your ears.
Whether or not it can be treated effectively should be determined by a physician, shouldn't it?

Reply Date: 2005/10/15

More Info

Understanding the connection between sinus issues and tinnitus can be quite complex, as both conditions can be interrelated and influenced by various factors. Your symptoms of tinnitus, nasal odor, and loss of smell suggest a potential underlying issue that may involve both your sinuses and auditory system.

1. Nasal Issues and Weather Changes: Yes, nasal problems can indeed fluctuate with weather changes. For instance, humidity, temperature, and even allergens in the air can exacerbate sinus issues. When the weather is dry, the mucous membranes in your nose may become irritated, leading to inflammation and potentially causing foul odors if there is stagnant mucus. This can also lead to post-nasal drip, which may contribute to your tinnitus symptoms. If your nasal passages are inflamed or blocked, it can create pressure changes in the ears, leading to sensations of fullness or ringing.

2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Inflammation and Tinnitus: The connection between TMJ disorders and tinnitus is well-documented. The TMJ is located near the ear, and inflammation or dysfunction in this joint can lead to referred pain or sensations in the ear, including tinnitus. Since you mentioned that your left TMJ became inflamed after a head injury, it is plausible that this could be contributing to your ear ringing. The trauma from the injury may have affected both the TMJ and the auditory pathways, leading to your current symptoms.

3. Treatment Duration and Individual Factors: The duration of treatment and individual response can vary significantly from person to person. Factors such as your overall health, lifestyle, and adherence to treatment can influence recovery. While some individuals may experience resolution of their symptoms, others may find their conditions more chronic. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and treatment progress. If your family is skeptical about the effectiveness of treatment, it may help to discuss the importance of addressing these symptoms with a medical professional who can provide evidence-based insights.

In terms of treatment, it is crucial to address both the sinus issues and the tinnitus. This may involve a combination of medications to reduce inflammation, nasal sprays to alleviate congestion, and possibly physical therapy for TMJ dysfunction. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation by an ENT specialist or a neurologist may be warranted to explore other underlying causes.

In summary, your symptoms of tinnitus, nasal odor, and loss of smell are likely interconnected, and addressing them holistically is essential. Weather changes can exacerbate nasal issues, TMJ inflammation can contribute to tinnitus, and individual factors can influence treatment outcomes. It is advisable to continue working with your healthcare provider to find an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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