Ear Vibrations: Causes and Concerns in ENT Health

Troubled ears

Whenever I wash my face, apply makeup, or massage my face (especially when pressing near the eyes and ears), I hear a vibrating sound in my "left" ear.
Additionally, when I hear the sound of dishes clashing, the sound of turning pages in a book, or when I hit a chain plate hard, even when I speak loudly (and even when I squat down and stand up), I also experience a vibrating sound in my "left" ear.
However, when I speak softly or remain in a quiet and still state, there is no vibrating sound in my ear, and I do not feel any blockage.
This sound is somewhat similar to muffled thunder, and it is difficult to describe.
Particularly during episodes of insomnia, the vibrating sound in my ear becomes more pronounced and loud, and even my right ear can experience it.
(1) What could this situation be? (2) Is the examination of middle ear pressure equivalent to a eustachian tube function test? (3) Does ear pressure occur while sleeping? Note: During a previous hospital visit, it was stated that the external appearance of my ear was normal, the eardrum was intact, hearing was normal, middle ear pressure was also normal, and there was no sensation of blockage in the ear, so the doctor advised my friend to coexist peacefully with it.

Xi Ning, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/10/13

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Dear Hsi-Ning,
Hello.
Based on your description, all the tests have returned normal results.
I suspect that the issue may be caused by small fragments of earwax in the external auditory canal.
When you change positions, the larger fragments may strike the eardrum, producing sound.
It would be advisable to conduct a detailed examination to see if this is the case.
If so, removing the fragmented earwax should alleviate the symptoms.
As for the tympanometry, it primarily assesses changes in middle ear pressure and can also provide insights into Eustachian tube function.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng
Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2011/10/13

More Info

Understanding ear vibrations and associated symptoms can be quite complex, as they may stem from various underlying causes. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing unusual auditory sensations, particularly vibrations in your left ear during specific activities or in response to certain sounds. This phenomenon can be concerning, especially when it is accompanied by other symptoms like insomnia.

(1) What Could This Situation Indicate?
The sensations you are experiencing may be related to a few potential issues:
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps equalize ear pressure. If this tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to sensations of fullness, pressure, or vibrations in the ear, especially during activities that change pressure, such as bending over or speaking loudly.

- Muscle Spasms: The middle ear contains tiny muscles that can contract in response to loud sounds or pressure changes. This reflex is designed to protect the inner ear from damage due to loud noises. If these muscles are overly sensitive or spasming, it could create a sensation of vibration or noise.

- Hyperacusis: This condition is characterized by an increased sensitivity to normal environmental sounds. It can lead to discomfort or unusual auditory sensations when exposed to sounds that would not typically be bothersome.

- Tinnitus: While you did not mention a constant ringing or buzzing sound, the vibrations you describe could be a form of tinnitus, which can manifest in various ways, including pulsatile tinnitus that may feel like vibrations or thumping.

- Anxiety and Stress: Given that you mentioned increased symptoms during periods of insomnia, it is also possible that anxiety or stress is amplifying your perception of these sensations. Stress can exacerbate sensitivity to sound and lead to a heightened awareness of bodily sensations.

(2) Is Middle Ear Pressure Testing Equivalent to Eustachian Tube Function Testing?
Middle ear pressure testing, often performed using tympanometry, assesses how well the eardrum moves in response to changes in air pressure. This test can provide insights into the function of the Eustachian tube, as a properly functioning tube will help maintain equal pressure on both sides of the eardrum. However, while tympanometry can indicate whether there is a problem with pressure regulation, it does not directly measure Eustachian tube function. For a more comprehensive evaluation, additional tests may be needed, such as a Valsalva maneuver or a Toynbee maneuver, which can help assess how well the Eustachian tube opens and closes.

(3) Can Ear Pressure Occur While Sleeping?
Yes, it is possible to experience changes in ear pressure while sleeping. Various factors can contribute to this, including:
- Body Position: Lying down can affect how the Eustachian tube functions, potentially leading to pressure changes in the middle ear.

- Sleep Apnea: If you have sleep apnea or other breathing issues during sleep, this can lead to fluctuations in pressure and may exacerbate any existing ear issues.

- Fluid Accumulation: Allergies or sinus issues can lead to fluid buildup in the Eustachian tube, which may become more pronounced during sleep.

Conclusion and Recommendations
Given that your previous examinations showed normal results, it may be beneficial to monitor your symptoms and consider the following steps:
1. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document when the vibrations occur, their intensity, and any associated activities or sounds. This information can help your healthcare provider identify patterns.

2. Consult an ENT Specialist: If symptoms persist or worsen, a follow-up with an ear, nose, and throat specialist may be warranted. They can perform more specialized tests to evaluate your Eustachian tube function and overall ear health.

3. Consider Stress Management Techniques: Since you mentioned insomnia, exploring relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or cognitive behavioral therapy may help alleviate anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

4. Avoid Loud Noises: Protect your ears from loud environments, as this can exacerbate sensitivity and discomfort.

5. Follow Up on Allergies: If you have a history of allergies, managing these conditions may also help reduce ear-related symptoms.

By taking these steps, you can better understand your symptoms and work towards finding relief.

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