Ear Vibrations and Eustachian Tube Issues

Earwax? Eustachian tube?

About a month ago, while lying flat on my bed and talking with a friend, I started to hear a vibrating sound in my right ear.
A few days later, whenever I spoke loudly or massaged my face, I would also hear this vibrating sound in my ear.
This condition sometimes lasts for two consecutive weeks, and other times only a few days.
What could this situation be? Additionally, my friend asked if having earwax stuck against the eardrum in the left ear could cause not only symptoms like tinnitus in the left ear but also potentially affect the Eustachian tube in the right ear.

Ning Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/07/17

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

You are correct in your assumption; the issue is mostly caused by small earwax adhering to the eardrum.
The Eustachian tubes on both sides are not connected, so there will not be the interaction you mentioned.

Reply Date: 2011/07/17

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the vibrations in your right ear during certain activities like talking loudly or facial massages, could be indicative of Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure in the ear. When this tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to sensations of fullness, pressure, or even vibrations in the ear.

ETD can be caused by various factors, including allergies, sinus infections, colds, or even changes in altitude. When you lie down or engage in activities that increase pressure in your throat, such as speaking loudly, the Eustachian tube may not open as it should, leading to the vibrations or sounds you are experiencing. This can also explain why the symptoms may come and go; they can be influenced by your overall health, environmental factors, or even your posture.

Regarding your friend's question about earwax blockage in one ear potentially affecting the other ear, it is indeed possible. When earwax accumulates and blocks the ear canal, it can create pressure changes that may affect the Eustachian tube on the same side. However, the Eustachian tube's function is bilateral, meaning that issues in one ear can sometimes influence the other ear as well. If the left ear is blocked, it may lead to a sensation of fullness or pressure in the right ear due to the interconnected nature of the auditory system.

If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, it is advisable to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include audiometric tests to assess your hearing and tympanometry to evaluate the function of your Eustachian tubes. Depending on the findings, treatment options may include nasal decongestants, antihistamines, or even procedures to help clear the Eustachian tube.

In the meantime, you might find relief from your symptoms by practicing techniques to help open the Eustachian tube, such as the Valsalva maneuver (gently blowing while pinching your nose) or the Toynbee maneuver (swallowing while pinching your nose). Staying hydrated and using saline nasal sprays can also help keep the nasal passages clear.

In summary, the vibrations you are experiencing in your ear could be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, and while earwax blockage can affect the other ear, it is essential to seek professional medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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