Hearing Issues: Ear Health and Tinnitus Concerns

Hearing issues

Doctor, I was told in high school that both of my ears were completely blocked.
However, when I clean my ears myself, I don't find anything, but I feel that my hearing is not quite right now.
I've often experienced tinnitus in the past, and I can make a popping sound in my ears by applying pressure (I'm not sure how to describe it).
Is there a problem with that? Even though I had an examination in college and there were no issues (I could distinguish sounds from the left and right).

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/11/09

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

This is a clinical manifestation of Eustachian tube obstruction.
The Eustachian tube is located behind the eardrum, so it is natural that you won't find anything when you clean your ears.
The sound you hear is due to the opening of the tube.
Pinching your nose and blowing air will have the same effect.
It is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for further examination of the Eustachian tube, which will provide a better understanding of your condition.

Reply Date: 2011/11/09

More Info

Hearing issues, including tinnitus and perceived hearing loss, can be complex and multifaceted. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a range of symptoms, including a sensation of fullness in the ears, difficulty hearing, and tinnitus. These symptoms can be indicative of several underlying conditions, and understanding them is crucial for effective management.

Firstly, the sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears, often described as "ear congestion," can be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure. When this tube does not function properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness, discomfort, and even hearing changes. This dysfunction can occur due to allergies, colds, sinus infections, or changes in altitude. If you find that you can relieve the pressure by performing a maneuver that creates a popping sound (often referred to as the Valsalva maneuver), it suggests that your Eustachian tube may be temporarily blocked or not functioning optimally.

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is another common symptom that can accompany hearing loss or ear congestion. It can be caused by various factors, including exposure to loud noises, earwax buildup, age-related hearing loss, or even stress. In your case, if you have a history of frequent earwax removal and have experienced tinnitus, it may be worth considering whether your ear health has been affected by these factors. While you mentioned that recent hearing tests showed no significant issues, it is important to note that some forms of hearing loss, particularly those related to high-frequency sounds, may not always be easily detectable in standard hearing tests.

Given your history of ear issues and the current symptoms, it would be advisable to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend additional tests, such as tympanometry, which assesses the function of the middle ear and Eustachian tube, or more detailed audiometric testing to evaluate your hearing across different frequencies.
Moreover, if you have experienced prolonged exposure to loud sounds, such as music concerts or loud environments, it is essential to consider the potential for noise-induced hearing loss. This type of hearing loss can be gradual and may not be immediately apparent. Protecting your ears from loud noises in the future is crucial, as repeated exposure can lead to irreversible damage.

In summary, while your recent hearing tests indicated no significant issues, your ongoing symptoms warrant further investigation. Eustachian tube dysfunction, tinnitus, and potential noise-induced hearing loss are all possibilities that should be explored. An ENT specialist can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include lifestyle modifications, hearing aids, or other interventions to manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, early intervention is key in addressing hearing issues and preventing further complications.

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