Can TMJ cause ear pain and pressure. How are TMJ and ear pain related. What are the most effective treatments for TMJ-related ear discomfort. How can you differentiate TMJ ear pain from other types of ear pain.

Understanding TMJ: The Jaw-Skull Connection

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a crucial component of our facial structure, acting as a hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull. This complex joint allows for various jaw movements essential for everyday activities like speaking, chewing, and swallowing. However, when issues arise with the TMJ, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including ear pain and pressure.

What Exactly is the TMJ?

The TMJ is a sliding hinge joint that connects the temporal bone of the skull to the mandible or lower jawbone. This joint is located just in front of each ear, allowing for smooth jaw movements in multiple directions. Its intricate structure includes muscles, ligaments, and cartilage that work together to facilitate proper jaw function.

The TMJ’s Role in Daily Activities

Why is the TMJ so important for our daily functions? This joint plays a crucial role in:

• Speaking clearly and articulating words
• Chewing food effectively
• Swallowing comfortably
• Yawning and opening the mouth wide
• Facial expressions and nonverbal communication

TMJ Disorders: When the Jaw Joint Malfunctions

TMJ disorders occur when there’s a problem with the joint or surrounding muscles. These issues can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and limited jaw movement. Understanding the types and causes of TMJ disorders is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Types of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can be categorized into three main types:

1. Myofascial pain: This is the most common type, characterized by deep, aching pain in the muscles controlling jaw movement.
2. Internal derangement of the joint: This involves physical problems within the joint, such as a dislocated jaw or injured articular disc.
3. Degenerative joint disease: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing long-term deterioration.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorders

What factors contribute to TMJ disorders? While the exact causes can sometimes be unclear, several factors are known to play a role:

• Jaw injury or trauma
• Arthritis affecting the jaw joint
• Chronic teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Excessive gum chewing
• Misaligned bite or malocclusion
• Stress and tension in facial muscles

The TMJ-Ear Pain Connection: Why Your Ears Hurt

One of the most perplexing aspects of TMJ disorders is their ability to cause ear pain and pressure. This connection often leads to misdiagnosis, as patients and even some healthcare providers may mistake TMJ-related ear pain for an ear infection or other auditory issue.

Anatomical Proximity: The Key to Understanding

Why does TMJ cause ear pain? The answer lies in the anatomical proximity of the TMJ to the ear canal. The TMJ is located just in front of the ear, and the structures are closely interconnected. When the TMJ becomes inflamed or dysfunctional, it can affect nearby structures, including:

• The auditory canal
• Eustachian tubes
• Nerves surrounding the ear
• Muscles that extend into the middle ear

Referred Pain: When Jaw Issues Manifest as Ear Discomfort

How can jaw problems cause pain in the ear? This phenomenon is known as referred pain, where discomfort in one area is felt in another due to shared nerve pathways. In the case of TMJ disorders:

• Pain from the jaw joint can radiate to the ear
• Muscle tension in the jaw can affect muscles in and around the ear
• Inflammation in the TMJ can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing ear discomfort

Recognizing TMJ-Related Ear Pain: Key Symptoms and Signs

Distinguishing TMJ-related ear pain from other types of ear discomfort is crucial for proper treatment. While the symptoms can vary from person to person, there are several telltale signs that your ear pain might be related to a TMJ disorder.

Characteristic Symptoms of TMJ Ear Pain

What symptoms indicate that your ear pain might be TMJ-related? Look out for:

• Dull, aching pain in and around the ear
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
• Pain that worsens when moving the jaw
• Ear pain accompanied by jaw stiffness or clicking
• Discomfort that extends to the temple or cheek

Differentiating TMJ Ear Pain from Other Ear Issues

How can you tell if your ear pain is due to TMJ or another condition? Consider these factors:

• TMJ ear pain often fluctuates with jaw movement
• It’s usually not accompanied by fever or ear discharge
• The pain may be bilateral (affecting both ears)
• Other TMJ symptoms like jaw clicking or limited mouth opening may be present

If you’re unsure about the source of your ear pain, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosing TMJ Disorders: The Path to Proper Treatment

Accurate diagnosis of TMJ disorders is essential for effective treatment, especially when ear pain is involved. Healthcare providers use a combination of methods to determine if TMJ is the root cause of your discomfort.

The Diagnostic Process

What steps are involved in diagnosing TMJ disorders? Typically, the process includes:

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, their duration, and any factors that worsen or alleviate the pain.
2. Physical examination: This involves checking jaw movement, listening for joint sounds, and palpating the jaw and surrounding muscles.
3. Dental examination: A dentist or orthodontist may evaluate your bite and look for signs of teeth grinding.
4. Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to visualize the joint structure and detect any abnormalities.

Ruling Out Other Conditions

Why is it important to rule out other conditions? Ear pain can have various causes, and proper treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. Your healthcare provider may also check for:

• Ear infections
• Sinus problems
• Dental issues
• Neurological conditions

This comprehensive approach ensures that the underlying cause of your ear pain is correctly identified.

Treatment Options for TMJ-Related Ear Pain

Once TMJ is identified as the source of your ear pain, various treatment options are available. The approach often depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of the TMJ disorder.

Conservative Treatment Approaches

What are the first-line treatments for TMJ-related ear pain? Many cases respond well to conservative measures, including:

• Rest and soft diet: Giving your jaw a break by avoiding hard or chewy foods
• Heat and cold therapy: Applying warm compresses or ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation
• Jaw exercises and stretches: Specific movements to improve jaw mobility and reduce muscle tension
• Stress management techniques: Relaxation exercises and stress reduction to alleviate jaw clenching

Advanced Treatment Options

When conservative measures aren’t enough, what other treatments are available? More advanced options include:

• Custom-fitted mouthguards or splints: To prevent teeth grinding and reduce jaw pressure
• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises and treatments to improve jaw function
• Prescription medications: Muscle relaxants or stronger pain relievers for severe cases
• Botox injections: To relax overactive jaw muscles
• Dental work: Correcting bite issues or misalignments that contribute to TMJ problems
• Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or replace the joint

Living with TMJ: Long-Term Management and Prevention

Managing TMJ disorders and preventing future flare-ups often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and ongoing care. By adopting certain habits and being mindful of your jaw health, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of TMJ-related ear pain.

Lifestyle Modifications for TMJ Health

How can you protect your TMJ in daily life? Consider these tips:

• Practice good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
• Avoid excessive gum chewing or nail biting
• Use proper ergonomics when working or studying to prevent jaw clenching
• Be mindful of jaw positioning during sleep
• Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your routine
• Maintain a balanced diet that includes jaw-friendly foods

When to Seek Professional Help

While many TMJ issues can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional intervention. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent ear pain or jaw discomfort that doesn’t improve with self-care
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Jaw locking or catching
• Significant changes in your bite or jaw alignment
• TMJ symptoms that interfere with daily activities or quality of life

Early intervention can prevent the progression of TMJ disorders and associated ear pain.

Understanding the connection between TMJ and ear pain is crucial for anyone experiencing persistent ear discomfort. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking proper diagnosis, and exploring appropriate treatment options, you can effectively manage TMJ-related ear pain and improve your overall quality of life. Remember, each case is unique, and working closely with healthcare professionals can help you develop a tailored approach to addressing your specific TMJ concerns.

How TMJ And Ear Pain Are Related And Treated

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Did you know that not all ear pain results from an infection? Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can result in discomfort in the area. The TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull; it acts as a sliding hinge that assists whenever you speak, chew, and swallow. Learn more about TMJ and ear pain disorders, how to differentiate this sensation from other types, why it occurs, and how to find relief.

What is The TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the bone that forms the side of the skull (temporal bone) and the lower jawbone (mandible), which is near your ear. This joint enables you to move your jaw forward, backward, and side-to-side. The main signs of TMJ disorder are a painful jaw and limited movement in the area.

TMJ Disorders

Although the causes of TMJ disorders are often unclear, discomfort in this joint can be caused by an injury to the jaw, arthritis, teeth grinding, excessive gum chewing, or a misaligned bite. There are three main types of TMJ disorders:

• Myofascial pain: This is the most common type of TMJ disorder. It is marked by deep, aching pain in the muscles of the joint.
• Internal derangement of the joint: This is associated with a dislocated joint or trauma to the jaw.
• Degenerative disease: Arthritis is a type of degenerative joint disorder that can affect the TMJ.

TMJ Pain Characteristics

TMJ pain may be a dull, ongoing irritation or a sharp, searing pain. This discomfort may be more apparent when you move your jaw to talk, chew, swallow, or yawn. In addition to experiencing ear and jaw pain, you might also feel soreness along the side of your head, neck, temple, cheek, face, lower jaw, and teeth. Other common symptoms of TMJ also include:

• A clicking/popping sound when opening the mouth
• Locking of the joint
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Ringing sound in the ear

Remember to consult with your doctor if your aching ear is companied by any of these symptoms.

Why TMJ Ear Pain Occurs

An aching ear is a common symptom for people with a TMJ disorder. Because the TMJ is near the auditory canal, pain and inflammation in this joint can affect the ear. A ringing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus, is often a part of TMJ ear pain. An ENT specialist can examine your hearing and eardrum to determine if your earache is related to the TMJ.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment for disorders of the TMJ depends on the cause and severity. If you are experiencing mild pain, your doctor may recommend some of these self-care remedies to reduce soreness and tension in the joint:

• Eat soft-foods
• Try relaxation techniques
• Do TMJ stretches and exercises
• Avoid chewing gum
• Avoid clenching or tensing your jaw
• Apply moist heat to the area

Anti-inflammatory medication and muscle relaxants can also help to relieve tenderness. A mouthguard may be a treatment option if your TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding; this will prevent damage to the joint. Orthodontic appliances are a great way to correct the upper and lower teeth, as misalignment can result in problems with the temporomandibular joint.

Finding the cause of your ear pain is important because it will lead to getting the correct care. If your earache is a sign of TMJ disorder, the good news is that you can reduce pain and discomfort with a few lifestyle changes. Incorporate breathing exercises to assist with relaxation, which can ease tension on the joint. Speak with your dentist or orthodontist if your TMJ pain is related to an incorrect bite.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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How to Get Rid of Ear Pain From TMJ

Who Knew TMJ Could Be Such a Pain in the EAR?!

If you are a woman, you are 9 times more likely to experience TMJ pain than a man. One common symptom of TMJ disorder is ear pain and difficulty opening your jaw.

Do you want to learn more about TMJ pain and how to get rid of ear pain from TMJ? Keep reading to learn more about your facial muscles and the tips that will help you restore normal jaw movements without experiencing ear pain. 

Over the counter medications:

One of the easiest things you can do to relieve ear pain from TMJ is to take over-the-counter medication for inflammation. This is a great option because you most likely already have the medicine to help, so you don’t need to get a prescription.  

If you have pain in your ear canal, taking medication like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce swelling and ease your pain. 

Self exercises:

When you have ear pain from TMJ, one of the best things you can do to treat this pain is look at the root cause. If you address your TMJ pain, it will likely relieve the pain in your ears as well! Here are a few self exercises you can do on your own to help relieve your TMJ pain. 

First, you can try tucking your chin to your chest to improve your mobility. Simply pull your chin down, essentially creating a double chin, and hold your chin down. Then you can relax and repeat this exercise as necessary. 

Another great exercise you can try is opening and closing your mouth with resistance. Put your thumb under your chin with good pressure. Then, open and close your mouth slowly and work against this pressure. 

These movements can help relieve your pain and prevent ear pain from developing or worsening. 

Massages:

Many people don’t consider when learning how to treat ear pain from TMJ is setting an appointment with a licensed massage therapist. Generally, this pain comes from inflammation, tension, and more. 

Visiting a medical massage therapist can help you relieve this pain and reduce inflammation. In fact, getting a massage can also promote healing in your damaged muscles and relieve any tightness and tension. 

Getting a massage from a licensed massage therapist can also increase your blood circulation. When you have increased blood flow, it reduces your pain and helps you relax. A massage will also help you drain fluid from your ears and will keep it from getting worse. 

While some types of massages you can perform on yourself to help ease pain from TMJ, it is always best to visit a licensed massage therapist. They know the best techniques and can help you find immediate relief!

Additional Resource:

Do you want to know the best ways to treat TMJ? Read: How to Treat TMJ/TMD.

Sucking:

If you are experiencing a lot of pressure in your ears from TMJ pain, something that may help you is sucking on different foods. This can help you relieve pressure and can ease your ear pain. 

Using a straw with your drinks can help. Otherwise, you can suck on hard candy, cough drops, or anything else you have on hand!

Heat and cold:

Using both heating pads and cold packs is a great way to reduce inflammation. If your jaw joint is inflamed, this inflammation can spread up your jaw and up to your ear. Alternating heat and cold can help reduce pain and stop the inflammation from spreading. 

First, use an electric heating pad or some hot pack and leave it on your jaw and ear for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Make sure it isn’t too hot, so it does not burn you!

After using heat for 10 to 20 minutes, you can use an icepack in the same area for another 10 to 20 minutes. Whether you have an ear infection or ear pain from TMJ, you will find significant pain relief by alternating these packs several times a day!

Avoid overusing your jaw:

Finally, the best way to get rid of ear pain from TMJ pain is to avoid overusing your jaw. Using your jaw joint too much can cause more pain and inflammation to spread to your ear canal. 

Some things that can lead to a sore jaw joint or TMJ pain are clenching your jaw, grinding your teeth, and even chewing gum! When you open and close your mouth too much, it can lead to your jaw locking up and causing pain when you eat. 

To avoid overusing your jaw, you can try eating soft foods that don’t require too much chewing, avoiding gum and other chewy foods, and you can even do stretches and relaxation exercises to help your jaw relax. 

Learning how to treat Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can help you prevent ear pain from TMJ!

Featured on Virginia This Morning:

Jana Powell recently sat down with Jessica Noll from Virginia This Morning to talk about TMD.

Schedule Your First Appointment Today!

Get Rid of Ear Pain With a TMJ Massage!

When you are experiencing ear pain from TMJ, it can significantly impact your daily life. Whether you go to an ENT specialist, also known as an ear nose and throat specialist, you can significantly reduce and prevent ear pain from TMJ if you follow these tips.  

Do you want to learn how to get rid of ear pain from TMJ? Finding a licensed massage therapist can also help! At Attune Massage Therapy, Jana can help you alleviate TMJ and TMD symptoms with physical therapy, education, and more.  

Contact our TMJ Specialist in Richmond, Virginia today to learn more about our medical massage therapy services.

For more information about Pediatric TMJ Massages, please visit: Pediatric TMJ.

This article should be used for educational purposes only (not advice, diagnosis, or treatment).

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Ear congestion – causes, in which diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment

Fungus

Allergy

Sulfur plug

Otitis

Adenoids

Hearing loss

Rhinitis

Tumor

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04 February

Ear congestion: causes, diagnosis and treatment.

Definition

The congestion of the ear or ears occurs as a result of a violation of sound perception and is characterized by various sensations, including deafness, a feeling of squeezing and heaviness, too strong sounding of one’s own voice. Ear congestion, regardless of the causes of its occurrence, is difficult for the patient to tolerate and, as a rule, requires the help of a specialist.

Types of stuffy ear

Congestion in one or both ears may be accompanied by pain, tingling, noise or ringing in the ears, dizziness. In some cases, congestion disappears after the act of swallowing.

A dangerous symptom is ear congestion with the addition of fever, headache, discharge from the ear (purulent or bloody), sensation of a foreign body.

Ear congestion does not always indicate a pathological process. This condition can be caused0021 water in the ear, pressure drop during air travel or deep diving. Sometimes too strong and incorrect blowing out simultaneously from two nasal passages leads to blockage of the ear (ears), which is associated with an increase in pressure in the middle chamber of the ear due to a sharp intake of air from the Eustachian tube. Taking some medications (antibiotics, psychotropic substances) has a toxic effect on the ear, causing congestion and hearing loss.

Diseases in which ear congestion may develop Attempting to remove earwax yourself with the help of improvised objects significantly increases the likelihood of pushing the plug deeper into the ear and sticking wax on the eardrum (this increases the risk of injury to the eardrum, leading to complete or partial hearing loss). In these cases, the state of congestion in the ears is accompanied by excruciating pain, noise, dizziness and nausea.

Mycotic or fungal infection of the external auditory canal . Infection with fungi can be complicated by narrowing or blockage of the ear canal with the appearance of a feeling of stuffiness in the ears. Hearing aids, in-ear headphones, as well as inflammatory diseases of the ear exacerbate the spread of fungi in the ear. The main signs of the disease are itching, ear congestion and the resulting hearing loss, an increase in the sound of one’s own voice in the diseased ear.

Damage to the external auditory canal and structures of the middle ear may be accompanied by hearing loss and congestion. Bleeding and the formation of a blood clot that clogs the ear canal lead to a deterioration in sound conduction. In addition, trauma to the tympanic membrane is possible during cleaning of the ear canal, a sharp drop in pressure, a strong blow to the outer ear. In this case, there is a sharp pain, which is replaced by congestion, ringing, noise and hearing loss.

Acute inflammatory diseases accompanied by edema and sometimes purulent contents. They can lead to ear congestion and hearing loss. In particular, with otitis media (tympanitis) the tympanic cavity and the auditory tube are involved in the inflammatory process. Swelling, narrowing the lumen of the auditory tube, and suppuration of soft tissues cause ear congestion and hearing loss. As a rule, the infection penetrates into this sterile cavity from the Eustachian tube, which is directly connected to the nasopharynx.

In children of the first and second years of life, acute otitis media can occur when breast milk or milk formula enters the nasopharynx during regurgitation.

In older children, otitis media and congestion can be caused by inflammation of the adenoids – lymphoid tissue responsible for local immunity of the nasopharynx and closing the openings of the auditory tubes in the nasopharynx. The anatomical proximity of the adenoids and the auditory tube ensures the rapid transfer of infection from the nasopharynx to the ears. In addition, enlarged adenoids can block the openings of the auditory tube, which causes a feeling of congestion.

Allergic reactions can also lead to acute inflammation and swelling of the middle ear.

Otitis externa is characterized by inflammation of the external ear canal. Congestion in the ear in this case occurs due to swelling of the tissues of the ear canal.

If the disease is caused by the ingress of a foreign body into the ear canal , then swelling and congestion are complemented by a picture of severe irritation. The patient complains of severe itching, pain, feeling of fullness, heat in the ear area. The pain is aggravated by chewing movements.

In case of furunculosis of the external auditory canal, the picture of the disease is aggravated by the closed space where the inflammatory process develops. The growing pain in the ear is complemented by its irradiation to the corresponding half of the head. The patient cannot lie on the affected side. Due to the strong swelling of the tissues of the external auditory canal, sound conduction to the diseased ear is disturbed, there is a feeling of congestion.

To the number of anatomical and postoperative defects , which cause ear congestion, include deviated septum, narrowing of the nasal passage due to hypoplasia of the wings of the nose, stenosis of the external valve of the nose.

Violation of nasal breathing leads to the frequent occurrence of a runny nose, infection of the nasal sinuses and, as a result, to the transition of the inflammatory process to the auditory tube.

Ear congestion in these cases appears on the side of the narrow nasal passage. The same consequences occur after operations in the nose.

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs due to a lesion in any part of the auditory nerve. Most often, this is an irreversible phenomenon, the symptoms of which include imbalance, dizziness, nausea, congestion and noise in the ear, poor perception of low sounds. The causes of sensorineural hearing loss can be transferred infectious and vascular diseases, tumor processes, injuries, toxic effects of various substances.

Meniere’s disease is a non-purulent disease of the inner ear, which is accompanied by its congestion. An increase in the volume of lymph in the labyrinth of the ear leads to increased pressure and attacks of progressive deafness, tinnitus, and sudden dizziness. In most cases, one ear is affected first. The disease begins either with attacks of dizziness, or with hearing impairment, which is completely restored between attacks. However, after a few years, hearing loss becomes irreversible.

Myofascial pain syndrome, diseases of the temporomandibular joint . Patients with myofascial pain syndrome, which is associated with impaired activity of the masticatory muscles and limited mobility of the lower jaw, may also complain of ear congestion. In addition, the disease is accompanied by headaches and facial pain, difficulty opening the mouth, clicking in the temporomandibular joint.

The root cause of the syndrome is a spasm of the masticatory muscles. A similar clinical picture is also given by diseases of the joint itself, caused by malocclusion.

Atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels, rise in blood pressure . Congestion in the ears with damage or vasoconstriction is due to a deterioration in the blood supply to all tissues, as well as a violation of blood circulation in the inner and middle ear.

Vasomotor rhinitis, or runny nose during pregnancy occurs under the influence of hormonal changes and is characterized by a violation of vascular tone and the release of mucous secretions. With allergic rhinitis, the clinical picture of the disease is almost the same, but the provoking factor is not hormones, but a specific allergen. Swelling of the mucous membrane and narrowing of the nasal passages lead to impaired patency of the auditory tube and cause ear congestion.

Tumors in the ear canal, auditory tube and inner ear – the most dangerous cause of ear congestion. Among them should be called cholesteatoma – a tumor-like formation, which consists of epidermal cells impregnated with cholesterol. Cholesteatoma is characterized by slow but steady growth. Formed in the middle ear, it can spread to the outer and inner ear, causing congestion and a feeling of heaviness in the ear, purulent discharge, swelling and redness of the auricle.

Which doctors to contact in case of ear congestion

If ear congestion occurs, you should contact an otorhinolaryngologist. Further consultation may be required.
therapist,
pediatrician,
gynecologist, neurologist, cardiologist, allergist.

Diagnosis and examination of ear congestion

To diagnose the disease that caused ear congestion, a careful questioning of the patient, examination of the external ear and auditory canal to the tympanic membrane, audiometric examination is necessary. The infectious nature of the disease is determined on the basis of the clinical picture, otoscopy data and culture of the discharge.

An injury in the ear area is diagnosed using CT radiography.

X-ray of the skull

X-ray examination of the skull to detect violations of the structure and integrity of the bones of the skull of various nature.

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Diagnosis of cholesteatoma is carried out by a doctor on the basis of otoscopy and radiological methods (radiography and computed tomography). Myofascial syndrome and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint are diagnosed according to radiography and CT of the joints, as well as electromyography.

What should I do if my ear is blocked?

If ear congestion occurs regularly, you should not postpone a visit to the doctor or try to eliminate this condition yourself.

Ear congestion treatment

Elimination of ear congestion is possible only with the treatment of the disease that caused it.

In the case of its infectious nature, antibiotic therapy, anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapy is necessary. Myofascial syndrome and temporomandibular joint dysfunction require bite correction and anti-inflammatory treatment. For tumors and injuries in the ear area, surgical treatment is indicated. With neurological and vascular nature of congestion and hearing loss, vascular and vitamin therapy are connected.

Sources:

1. Clinical guidelines “Otitis externa” (children). Developed by: Union of Pediatricians of Russia, National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists, Interregional Association for Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. – 2021.
2. Clinical guidelines “otitis externa” (adults). Developed by: National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists. – 2021.
3. Clinical guidelines “Otitis media acute”. Developed by: National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists. – 2021.
4. Meniere’s disease: Clinical guidelines. – National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists. – Moscow – St. Petersburg, 2014.
5. Sensorineural hearing loss in adults: Clinical guidelines. – National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists. — Moscow, 2016.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

Pressing on the ears from the inside: causes and noise in the head, why pressure and sensation, feeling of heaviness

Contents

• Why is pressure felt in the ears?
• What causes high blood pressure?
• Treatment
• Preventive measures
• Diagnosis

Contents

Why do I feel pressure in my ears?

Ears are not only an organ of hearing, but also an organ of the vestibular system. The inner ear maintains the body’s balance in space. This body in its entirety is a delicate and well-established system. A person picks up sounds and can recognize their volume, distance and frequency.

There are several reasons for the feeling of pressure on the ears from the inside:

• Circulatory disorders in the cervical spine and head. In this case, a person will feel pressure in both ears, dizziness, headache, fainting are also possible.
• Inflammatory processes in the head. Infections can cause the mucous membranes to thicken and become inflamed, resulting in a feeling of a foreign body in the ear or increased pressure.
• The presence of sulfur plugs, water, foreign objects in the ears. The patient will experience a decrease in the threshold of hearing.
• Treatment with some groups of antibiotics causes deafness and a feeling of “bursting” pressure from inside the ear. This effect is called ototoxicity.
• Listening to loud music with headphones or at a concert for a long time. Then the pressure in the ears and head is a protective function of the body.

As we can see, such a feeling can disturb a person for various reasons, but the main task of specialists is to identify them and remove pressure.

What causes high blood pressure?

The person feels stuffy in the ears or feels pressure in the ear for a variety of reasons. The provocateur of this symptom can be otitis media, eustachitis, malignant or benign tumors in the ear, as well as malfunctions of the blood vessels passing through the cavity of the middle and inner ear.

Similar symptoms accompany the following pathologies:

1. Acute or chronic purulent otitis at the preperforative stage. The explanation is simple: a viscous substance in the form of mucus and pus accumulates in the middle ear. Since the secretions cannot leave the ear through the auditory tube, they remain inside, and the person complains of pressure.
2. ICP syndrome (persistent increase in intracranial pressure that does not completely equalize).
3. A disease characterized by the growth of bone tissue and impaired functionality of the ear. Pathology is called otosclerosis and requires immediate treatment.
4. Increased total arterial pressure.
5. Accumulation of myelin sheath cells forming a benign tumor. It is called auditory neuroma and is formed in the cells of the nervous tissue.
6. Increased secretion of ear exudate and its accumulation in the ear canal. This phenomenon is called an ear or cerumen plug.
7. Changes in the state of blood vessels due to age. A prime example of this is atherosclerosis.
8. Viral or infectious diseases in which the Eustachian tube is included in the cold process.

As a rule, all diseases that occur in the body affect the auditory organ. This is expressed precisely in an increase in pressure, because of which we feel congestion and discomfort.

It is important to remember that the sensation of pressure in the ears often does not occur on its own. It is accompanied by a number of other symptoms, among which:

• Severe migraines. As a rule, pain and pressure in the head occurs on the same side as the affected ear. However, this is not a prerequisite. Pain can be of varying intensity and localization.
• Dizziness, sometimes leading to nausea and disorientation in space. This is due to dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus.
• High ear sensitivity to all external sounds. The patient may experience discomfort even from the usual, quiet noises.
• General disturbance of sound perception.

This is important! Do not underestimate the danger of the conditions listed above. Despite the fact that ear pressure does not cause pronounced discomfort to a person, this symptom should not be present in a healthy ear.

Delay in contacting a doctor can result in the development of many complications, as well as partial or complete deafness.

Pressing on the ears

Although almost all patients describe the complaint as a generalized “pressing on the ears”, the symptoms of the pathology differ for different cases. Some people have a feeling that the ear canal is clogged with cotton, others report that one ear is blocked, and the other does not bother them at all. Sometimes there is a feeling that on the one hand it was laid more than on the other.

The most common complaints of this nature are: pressure in the ears and on the head, pressure on the ears and headache. There is a feeling that the head is swelling and bursting, it seems that something is stretching the eardrums from the inside, pressing on them. Most patients in this condition suffer from pain, nausea, tinnitus, various additional sounds (ticking, buzzing, ringing). A person begins to hear the so-called phantom sounds, for example, the whistle of a kettle or a phone ringing.

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Discomfort and painful sensations make the patient irritable, cause constant anxiety, sleep problems. Pain in the head can be barely noticeable, localized in the temples, the back of the head, or so strong that even simple movements cause suffering to the patient. In addition, dizziness may occur, accompanying symptoms appear: the inability to tolerate loud sounds, rejection of strong light, distortion of what is heard.

The doctor cannot immediately determine why he is pressing on his ears, since many pathologies lead to the development of such a problem. These are both diseases of the ear itself, and other disorders in the body, or even a combination of them. Often such complaints occur against the background of hypertension.

Common causes

Let’s find out what diseases and pathologies can cause sensations of pressure in the ears from the inside.

• Migraine is the most common and most common cause of inner ear pressure. Manifestations of migraine are extremely unpleasant and, in addition, are also prolonged. Increased intracranial pressure can also cause a feeling of squeezing in the temples, near the ears.
• Otosclerosis . This disease is characterized by increased growth of spongy bone tissue in the inner ear. This overgrowth, if present, is sure to produce a sensation of pressure and fullness in the auditory organs.
• Atherosclerosis of vessels located in the brain. This pathology of lipid metabolism in the blood vessels may well cause a sensation of pressure. Vascular diseases leading to the appearance of this symptom can be different: in addition to atherosclerosis, aneurysm and other pathologies are possible. Almost all diseases of the vessels located in the neck and head can lead to a persistent or periodic feeling of pressure in the temples. The so-called neuroma, or tumor of the auditory nerve, sometimes also causes the described symptom.
• With hypertension (high intracranial pressure), it goes without saying that this pressure will also be felt in the ear area. Diseases of a catarrhal nature, as well as sinusitis, can also cause this symptom.
• Otitis media in the acute or chronic phase can also lead to this problem. Inflammatory processes, possibly of an infectious nature, may be one of the possible causes of this symptom. Otitis or other diseases can cause inflammation. Most often, if this is the reason, a feeling of pressure from the inside in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe ears will occur already at the last stage of the disease, when purulent otitis media will lead to perforation (rupture) of the eardrum. In this case, the feeling of squeezing will also be accompanied by severe pain in the ears.
• Osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae. In this case, the sensation of pressure occurs due to microtrauma of the blood vessels, which leads to osteochondrosis.

Hypertension

Pressure on the ears may be caused by hypertension. This is one of the most likely causes of this problem.

Hypertension is an increased pressure in the vessels, hollow organs and cavities of the human body. This disease can provoke damage to blood vessels, organs of the circulatory system.

Pressing pain in the ear is one of the most striking symptoms of this disease. Others include nausea, headache, and loss of consciousness. But the main distinguishing feature is a persistent increase in blood pressure.

Otosclerosis

Pressure in the ears, of course, can speak of problems directly with this sense organ. A disease such as otosclerosis characterizes progressive hearing loss. It is most often provoked by a malfunction of the auditory ossicles located in the middle ear. The disease has a number of symptoms such as a hum in the head, impaired coordination of movements and impaired hearing.

Dense wax plugs

Many people experience sudden ear congestion. There is a feeling of the presence of cotton wool, which simply delays sounds. Sulfur plugs are to blame for this.

The most common cause of their occurrence is inaccurate cleaning of the external auditory canal. In the process of sulfur accumulation, congestion is formed. And the accompanying symptoms of the problem are coughing and nausea. A person may feel pain, but it should not be particularly critical. If the patient has formed sulfur plugs, then congestion is characterized by an echo of his own voice in his head.

Sinusitis

Due to prolonged rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, hypothermia, a person’s sinuses become inflamed. At the same time, the natural ways of outflow of mucus from the nose are blocked, pus accumulates in the nose. A thick fluid fills the sinuses, provoking a violation of nasal breathing, leading to swelling of the auditory tube.

Symptoms of sinusitis:

• Nasal congestion.
• Difficulty blowing mucus.
• Swelling of the face.
• Nasive voice.
• Pain in the forehead, bridge of the nose, under the eyes, above the eyebrows, in the teeth.

As soon as you lie down or bend over, you get the feeling that a thick hat is pulled over your head, it presses in your ears, and your head throbs noisily.

Purulent otitis media

Otitis media most often appears as a complication of sinusitis, sinusitis, and colds. An infection from the nose enters the middle ear, provoking the development of an inflammatory process. The patient accumulates pus, which gradually presses on the eardrum. At the same time, hearing is disturbed, extraneous noises, ringing occur. Patients note that pressing pain in the ear is sometimes replaced by sharp shootings of such intensity that it is impossible to hold back the cry.

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Other causes

There are still a huge number of factors that cause this problem. The onset of a symptom may be caused by long-term medication. These are most often antibiotics and ototoxic drugs.

Pressure on the ears can be caused by listening to loud music, wearing headphones all the time, and talking on the phone for long periods of time. If the situation is not corrected in a timely manner, this can lead to a significant hearing loss.

Inflammatory processes can also be a fairly common cause of this phenomenon. A lump in the throat and pressure on the ears are satellites of the defeat of this interconnected group of organs. Symptoms are caused by infectious diseases.

The tympanic membrane is the most sensitive to this process. It is this part of the ear that takes the whole blow in the form of purulent secretions and liquids. They accumulate and cause damage to the eardrum.

Treatment

Find out how and how to treat earache and other unpleasant symptoms.

The first thing to do if you experience pressure from the inside of your ears is to go to the doctor. As we have already established, the causes of such pressure in the ears can be different, therefore, the treatment, as you know, is also different. When the cause of the symptom is eliminated, the latter, as a rule, goes away on its own.

First you need to visit an ENT specialist who will examine the ears for inflammation, otitis, colds and other factors that affect the general well-being. The presence of injuries of the tympanic membrane, its possible perforation, various pathologies of the internal auditory organs can also be detected at this stage. It may also turn out that the feeling of fullness in the ears is caused by a banal sulfur plug, which the doctor can immediately remove. It is likely that this method will already return to normal health, and the feeling of pressure will disappear.

The ENT doctor will also conduct a special examination – an audiogram, which will help to identify existing problems with auditory perception. After an examination and an accurate diagnosis, the doctor prescribes the appropriate treatment for this diagnosis.

Usually complex therapy includes:

• taking internal medications;
• ear drops;
• antihistamines;
• painkillers;
• physiotherapy.

Treatment varies depending on the cause of the disease, and may also include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, cold medications, vitamins, and other medications. If the cause is serious enough and cannot be eliminated with medication, an appropriate operation may be prescribed.

It is necessary to follow all the doctor’s instructions exactly to prevent the development of a chronic disease or any complication. If the ENT doctor failed to identify the cause of internal pressure in the ears, then you will have to undergo a complete comprehensive examination of the body: pass the necessary tests, and visit doctors of other specializations.

Treatment of the problem

Often a person is faced with the fact that his ear is blocked. What to do? At home, you can only exacerbate the problem. In order not to permanently lose your hearing, it is better to consult a specialist. He, having analyzed a number of symptoms, will make a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

The doctor will check whether there is inflammation, damage to the eardrum or other diseases using various examination methods. The most modern diagnostic methods include:

• otoscopy;
• audiometry;
• tympanometry;
• radiography;
• MRI;
• complete blood count;
• blood pressure measurement.

Treatment usually consists of several stages. First of all, the patient must undergo a medical course consisting of antibiotics, vitamins, antispasmodic and restorative agents. Secondly, this problem cannot be eliminated without physiotherapeutic procedures. Their goal is to eliminate the main symptom – pressure on the ears.

Many people are interested in the question, if the ear is blocked, what to do at home? But here it is better not to hesitate and immediately use the services of a doctor, as there are diseases that are very difficult to diagnose. Perhaps it is the early treatment that will help to avoid serious problems in the future.

How is pressure treated today?

Depending on what caused the patient to have such a symptom as a feeling of squeezing and increased pressure – the individual characteristics of the body, concomitant pathologies or ear inflammation, treatment will be selected.

In order to effectively equalize ear pressure without allowing any complications, diagnosis and therapy are carried out on a case-by-case basis. Taking into account factors such as the duration of these symptoms and the general well-being of the patient, the doctor decides on conservative treatment or surgical intervention, which will help to quickly get rid of the disease.

Having diagnosed the pathology that caused the disturbing symptoms, they can prescribe the following treatment:

1. Medicines that lower blood pressure (antihypertensives). They are also good at relieving congestion.
2. Antibacterial therapy. It is used in acute and chronic otitis to relieve inflammation.

See also: Squeaking in the ears: causes and treatment of an unpleasant symptom

In the case of neurinoma of nerve cells in the ear, there is a high probability that the doctor will have to resort to surgical methods of treatment.

Another way to get rid of the problem is radiation. However, it is rarely used due to wide side effects. Radiation therapy is only indicated when the tumor is difficult to reach with a scalpel or is large.

If it presses on the ears due to a seasonal cold, then no particularly serious treatment is required here. Often, therapy consists in prescribing drugs aimed at relieving the symptoms of the disease.

As soon as its main manifestations can be eliminated, the patient ceases to be disturbed by discomfort in the ear. However, severe forms of colds can lead to a lot of complications, which will be difficult to cope with without antibiotics.

The pressure caused by a wax plug in the ear is restored by getting rid of the plug. This is done either mechanically, or sulfur is dissolved by special means. It is recommended to get medical advice before getting rid of the cork.

Note! The whole complex of measures aimed at the treatment of atherosclerosis consists of correcting the diet, fighting bad habits and a radical change in lifestyle in general. In addition to this, the patient is prescribed a number of drugs that lower the level of lipids in the body.

Medications

Medications are prescribed depending on what disease has affected the person.

• In case of hypertension, Captopril will help to reduce pressure and eliminate the buzzing in the ears. Nootropic drugs that strengthen blood vessels and normalize blood flow (Vazotropil, Cinnarizine) can also be prescribed.
• If a patient suffers from osteochondrosis, complex therapy is indicated: applying anti-inflammatory ointments to the neck, shoulder girdle (Diclofenac, Ketoprofen), taking Noofen to improve blood supply to brain tissues, to strengthen blood vessels – a drug based on natural components of Ginkgo bilobo.
• When it presses in the ears from the inside due to sinusitis, it is necessary to undergo special procedures to cleanse the nasal passages from accumulated pus: cuckoo, Yamik catheter, suction of mucus with a syringe after piercing the nasal septum. It is also necessary to take antibacterial drugs to relieve the inflammatory process.
• Purulent otitis is also treated with antibiotics, the patient needs not only to take drugs inside, but also to drip antibacterial drugs into the ear canal.
• In atherosclerosis, it is necessary to take blood-thinning drugs (Aspirin), drugs that reduce blood clots (Wobenzym).
• Migraine may not respond to treatment, constantly appearing in a person’s life, but attacks can be extinguished with the help of painkillers. The headache is eliminated, the feeling of fullness in the ears disappears.

In addition, massage, physiotherapeutic procedures can be prescribed: electrophoresis, paraffin therapy, magnet.

Preventive measures

A very large number of diseases are accompanied by this problem. Pressure on the ears is a concomitant symptom of various processes. And a person who has encountered such a problem at least once tries by all means to avoid a repetition of the situation. Even for those who have never suffered from excessive pressure in the ears, it is useful to adhere to general rules. Of course, it is necessary to lead the right way of life. As much physical activity as possible is recommended. A healthy diet is also not to be ignored.

Avoiding bad habits, such as excessive drinking and smoking, will reduce the risk of these symptoms. It is also worth carrying out the prevention of colds, because it often entails problems with the organs of this group. An important point is hygiene. Cleaning your ear canals properly and gently will help keep your ears healthy.

People with frequent ear congestion should avoid deep sea diving and air travel. And if you still had to fly, then at least you should not sleep on the plane.

It is better to anticipate the problem in advance. But it still happens that something presses on the ears from the inside. Causes and treatment will be prescribed only by the appropriate specialist. Do not self-medicate.

Diagnostics

Before proceeding with the active therapy of pathology, it is necessary to identify the initial cause that led to such a condition. The patient should visit a therapist, an otolaryngologist, a neuropathologist, a cardiologist. And if necessary, a surgeon and an oncologist.

In addition to the interview and examination, you will be assigned various research methods:

• Complete blood count. Gives information about the presence of inflammatory reactions in the body.
• Swabs from the mucous membranes of the nose and throat to identify the pathogen. This event is held for the best selection of antibiotics for sinusitis, sinusitis.
• Ultrasound with dopplerography of the vessels of the neck and head. Allows you to find deviations in the development and functionality of blood vessels that feed the brain. Possible atherosclerotic deposits are also identified. Blood flow is seen in both directions.
• CT and MRI. These studies may be prescribed if the previous methods are not informative or did not reveal any deviations. Head computed tomography findings can reveal even the smallest tumors, such as neurinoma (a neoplasm on the auditory nerve).