Tinnitus and Ear Pressure Issues: Causes and Solutions

Tinnitus and ear fullness?

Hello, doctor.
About nine months ago, I started experiencing tinnitus in my left ear.
Initially, I wasn't sure if it was due to excessive stress, as I also felt dizzy and nauseous.
A few days later, it became just tinnitus with a feeling of fullness.
When I burp or yawn, I hear a sound similar to a tuning fork vibrating nearby, which is louder than the original tinnitus.
After burping, it returns to the tinnitus sound! During this period, I have seen many doctors and undergone hearing tests, which showed that my left ear has slightly poorer high-frequency hearing compared to my right ear, but the doctors said it is still within the normal range.
I also had a nasal endoscopy that showed no growths, but I have severe nasal allergies! I have consulted 6-7 doctors; some said there is an imbalance in ear pressure, while others mentioned poor inner ear circulation.
However, after taking medication for a long time, there has been no improvement.
The tinnitus sometimes diminishes to the point where I think it's getting better, but at other times it becomes louder! What could be the problem? Is it possible that there is an issue with the Eustachian tube, such as blockage or patulous Eustachian tube, or could it be something else? What additional tests should I arrange? If it is an Eustachian tube issue, is it possible for it to persist for nearly a year without improvement?

Ahan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/28

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you have already undergone an examination, it is advisable not to pay excessive attention to the tinnitus, as it is mostly a benign change.
Additionally, you can first address the nasal allergies, as the function of the Eustachian tube may gradually improve after the allergies are managed.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/01/28

More Info

Tinnitus and ear pressure issues can be quite distressing and complex, often requiring a thorough understanding of the underlying causes and potential treatments. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing tinnitus in your left ear for about nine months, accompanied by sensations of pressure and discomfort. You have also undergone various examinations, including hearing tests and nasal endoscopy, which have not revealed any significant abnormalities.
Tinnitus, which is the perception of sound when no external sound is present, can be caused by a variety of factors. Common causes include exposure to loud noises, ear infections, earwax buildup, and even stress or anxiety. In your case, the fact that you have a history of nasal allergies could also play a role in your ear symptoms. Allergies can lead to inflammation and congestion in the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, potentially causing pressure imbalances and contributing to tinnitus.

The symptoms you describe, such as the increased sound during yawning or burping, suggest that there may be a dysfunction in the Eustachian tube. This tube is responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle ear, and if it is not functioning properly, it can lead to a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear, as well as exacerbate tinnitus. Eustachian tube dysfunction can be caused by allergies, sinus infections, or even anatomical variations.

Given that you have seen multiple doctors and have been prescribed medications without significant improvement, it may be beneficial to consider a few additional steps:
1. Eustachian Tube Function Tests: These tests can help determine if your Eustachian tubes are functioning properly. A specialized ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can perform these assessments.

2. Allergy Management: Since you have severe nasal allergies, working with an allergist to manage your symptoms could help alleviate some of the pressure and tinnitus. This may include allergy testing and potential treatments such as antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids.

3. Tinnitus Management: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and sound therapy are two approaches that can help manage the perception of tinnitus. These therapies can help you cope with the sound and reduce its impact on your daily life.

4. Consider Imaging Studies: If your symptoms persist, it may be worthwhile to discuss with your doctor the possibility of imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural issues in the ear or surrounding areas.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise, can also be beneficial in managing tinnitus and ear pressure issues.

In conclusion, while Eustachian tube dysfunction seems to be a likely contributor to your symptoms, it is essential to continue working with healthcare professionals to explore all potential causes and treatments. Given that your symptoms have persisted for nearly a year, a comprehensive evaluation by an ENT specialist who focuses on Eustachian tube disorders may provide further insights and potential solutions. Remember, it is crucial to advocate for your health and seek out specialists who can provide the care you need.

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