Allergies and Hearing Loss
Seasonal allergies, triggered by various environmental factors like pollen, pet dander, dust, or mold, can lead to inflammation in different parts of the body, including the ears. This inflammation can cause symptoms such as pain, pressure, or even temporary hearing loss.
Tinnitus and Allergies:
Tinnitus, often described as ringing or buzzing in the ears, can be worsened by allergies. The congestion and pressure caused by allergic reactions can lead to fluid buildup in the ear canals and behind the eardrums, intensifying tinnitus symptoms. The feeling of the pressure can become rather uncomfortable and if prolonged and intense a call to your family physician could be in order.
Mild food allergies that are not normally noticed outside of allergy season may become more noticeable during peak allergy season in our experience.
Ear Infections:
Untreated allergies may increase the risk of ear infections due to the accumulation of fluid in the ears, providing a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to permanent hearing loss and conditions like Meniere’s disease.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction:
Allergies can also cause dysfunction of the Eustachian tubes, leading to symptoms such as hearing loss or discomfort in the ears due to fluid or mucus buildup.
Never put off treatment of infection of tube dysfunction as permanent loss is indeed irreversible.
Managing Allergy-Related Hearing Loss
It's crucial not to ignore hearing issues caused by allergies. Proper care and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications like permanent hearing loss or conditions such as Meniere’s disease. Treatment options may include medications like antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or interventions like sound therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Treating Tinnitus & Hearing Loss Related to Allergies at Home
Medications like antihistamines can dry out your sinuses and improve ear function. Over-the-counter options like decongestants and nasal corticosteroids can also relieve congestion and reduce inflammation, giving your ears some much-needed relief. Ask your pharmacists to assist you if you have questions or are on medications (think contraindications) and by all means consult your Doctor for further testing if your allergies are getting worse. It's a wait for specialist testing but often well worth it. We have had clients find out they have food allergies such as "Birch Seed" as well as seasonal allergies that complicated matters.
Questions?
We always recommend everyone get at least one hearing test while their hearing is still 100% for many reasons. Often it becomes invaluable for insurance claims for workplace injury, illness, automobile or industrial accidents. Making a hearing test a part of a yearly physical checkup is a great addition to know you are in great overall health. To book a complete hearing evaluation, contact our friendly staff at the Polo Park Hearing Centre by calling (204) 788-1083 or use the form online. Thanks for reading!
