Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
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Allergies are known for their seasonal sniffles and watery eyes. However, allergies don’t just affect your ears or eyes, they can also impact your ears. The connection between allergies and ear problems is a lot more significant than you might think. That’s why it’s important to understand this connection and manage both allergies and ear health more effectively.
All About Anatomy
The human ear is divided into three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. Allergies primarily affect the middle ear, which is connected to the back of the nose via the Eustachian tube. This small passageway is responsible for equalizing pressure and draining fluid from the middle ear. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and swelling of the Eustachian tube, leading to dysfunction that manifests as various ear problems.
The Allergic Cascade
When an allergen, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, enters the body of someone with allergies, it triggers an immune response. The body mistakenly identifies the otherwise harmless substance as a threat and releases histamines and other chemicals to combat the perceived invader. This overreaction of the immune system causes the symptoms of allergies.
Ear Problems Stemming from Allergies
Here are some of the ear problems that can be caused by allergies:
Otitis Media with Effusion (OME)
Also known as “glue ear,” OME occurs when fluid is trapped behind the eardrum in the middle ear. It’s often a result of the Eustachian tube’s dysfunction. This fluid can cause a feeling of fullness in the ear, reduced hearing ability, and discomfort. Allergies are a common cause of OME, as they can lead to persistent Eustachian tube inflammation.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Allergic inflammation can cause the Eustachian tube to swell, making it difficult for air to flow into or out of the middle ear. This results in a pressure imbalance, leading to a sensation of blocked ears, popping, clicking, or even temporary hearing loss. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction can cause significant discomfort and affect an individual’s quality of life.
Tinnitus
Although typically associated with other health issues, tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears, can sometimes be linked to allergies. The excessive fluid and pressure from allergic reactions can stimulate the delicate structures of the inner ear, resulting in tinnitus symptoms.
Identification and Diagnosis
Correctly identifying a connection between allergies and ear problems is the first step toward finding relief. An allergist, an ENT, or a hearing health professional can assess symptoms, perform tests, and provide a diagnosis. Skin prick tests, blood tests for specific IgE antibodies, and tympanometry (to evaluate the middle ear) are among the diagnostic tools used.
Treatment Strategies
If you have an allergy-induced ear problem, you’ll need to treat both the underlying allergies and the resultant ear issues.
Medications
- Antihistamines: These are the front line of defense against allergic reactions as they block histamine action.
- Decongestants: These can provide temporary relief from nasal congestion and may help ease Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- Nasal Corticosteroids: These sprays reduce nasal inflammation and are highly effective for many allergy symptoms.
- Allergy Immunotherapy: In the case of severe or chronic allergies, immunotherapy such as allergy shots or sublingual tablets can help the body build tolerance to the allergens over time.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Adjustments
- Air Purifiers/HEPA Filters: These can reduce the presence of allergens in the home.
- Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air may help keep the Eustachian tubes functioning properly.
- Nasal Irrigation: Using saline solutions to flush the nasal passages can alleviate congestion and promote drainage.
- Avoiding Allergens: Taking measures to minimize exposure to known allergens can reduce allergy symptoms and associated ear problems.
Medical Procedures
In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary to address fluid accumulation or persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- Myringotomy with Tube Insertion: A surgical procedure where a small incision is made in the eardrum to drain fluid and pressure. Sometimes, small tubes are inserted to maintain drainage and ventilation.
- Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation: This is a more recent procedure that dilates the Eustachian tube to improve function and is generally reserved for chronic cases.
The Road to Relief
Managing allergy-induced ear problems can feel like a balancing act. It requires a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and a good understanding of one’s triggers. You should work closely with your healthcare providers to create a personalized plan. This plan should address both the allergy symptoms and the secondary ear issues.
Contact Us For Ongoing Support
Allergies may be a fact of life for many, but they don’t have to lead to needless suffering, especially when it comes to the health of one’s ears. If you’ve noticed any changes in your hearing, whether due to allergies or any other reason, contact us to book a hearing test.