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. Why does TMJ sometimes lead to ear problems.

Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and Its Function

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex and crucial part of our facial anatomy. Located on each side of the head, it connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone). This joint acts as a sliding hinge, enabling a wide range of jaw movements essential for everyday activities such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing.

Why is the TMJ so important? Its unique structure allows for both rotational and translational movements, giving us the ability to open our mouths wide, move our jaws side to side, and perform the intricate motions required for speech and eating. The TMJ is surrounded by muscles, ligaments, and nerves, making it a potential source of various discomforts when not functioning properly.

Key Components of the TMJ

• Condyle: The rounded end of the lower jaw that fits into the joint socket
• Articular disc: A soft tissue cushion between the condyle and the temporal bone
• Synovial membrane: Produces fluid to lubricate the joint
• Capsule: A fibrous tissue that encloses and protects the joint

How does the TMJ’s proximity to the ear contribute to ear-related symptoms? The close anatomical relationship between the TMJ and the ear structures means that problems in one area can easily affect the other. This connection is a key reason why TMJ disorders often manifest with ear-related symptoms, including pain and pressure.

TMJ Disorders: Types, Causes, and Risk Factors

TMJ disorders, also known as temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), encompass a range of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. These disorders can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities. Understanding the different types of TMJ disorders and their potential causes is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Types of TMJ Disorders

1. Myofascial pain: This is the most common type, characterized by pain in the muscles that control jaw function.
2. Internal derangement: This involves a displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle.
3. Degenerative joint disease: This includes osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ.

What causes TMJ disorders? The exact causes are not always clear, but several factors can contribute to their development:

• Trauma or injury to the jaw
• Chronic teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Arthritis
• Stress and tension
• Misalignment of the teeth or jaw
• Excessive gum chewing
• Poor posture

Are certain individuals more prone to TMJ disorders? Yes, some risk factors increase the likelihood of developing TMJ problems:

• Gender: Women are more likely to experience TMJ disorders than men
• Age: Most commonly affects people between 20 and 40 years old
• Genetic predisposition
• Certain medical conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, sleep disorders)

The Connection Between TMJ and Ear Pain: Unraveling the Mystery

The relationship between TMJ disorders and ear pain is a complex one, often leading to confusion among patients and healthcare providers alike. Why does a problem with the jaw joint cause discomfort in the ear? The answer lies in the intricate anatomy of the head and neck region.

How close is the TMJ to the ear? The temporomandibular joint is located just in front of the ear, with only a thin bone separating it from the external and middle ear structures. This proximity means that any inflammation or dysfunction in the TMJ can easily affect the surrounding areas, including the ear.

Mechanisms of TMJ-Related Ear Pain

• Referred pain: The trigeminal nerve, which innervates both the TMJ and parts of the ear, can cause pain to be felt in the ear even when the source is the jaw joint.
• Muscle tension: Tightness in the muscles around the TMJ can pull on the structures of the ear, causing discomfort.
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: TMJ problems can affect the function of the Eustachian tube, leading to ear fullness and pressure.
• Inflammation: Swelling in the TMJ area can put pressure on nearby nerves and blood vessels, affecting ear sensation.

Is it possible to distinguish between TMJ-related ear pain and other types of ear pain? While it can be challenging, there are some key differences:

• TMJ-related ear pain often occurs alongside jaw pain or difficulty moving the jaw
• It may worsen with jaw movements like chewing or yawning
• The pain might be accompanied by clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
• Traditional ear infection symptoms like fever or discharge are typically absent

Recognizing the Symptoms: When TMJ Affects Your Ears

Identifying TMJ-related ear symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While ear pain is a common complaint, it’s important to recognize that it may be stemming from the jaw joint rather than the ear itself. What are the telltale signs that your ear discomfort might be TMJ-related?

Common TMJ-Related Ear Symptoms

• Ear pain or ache, often described as a dull, constant discomfort
• Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
• Muffled hearing or temporary hearing loss
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Ear itching or tickling sensation

Do these symptoms always indicate a TMJ disorder? Not necessarily. Many of these symptoms can also be caused by ear infections, allergies, or other conditions. However, if you experience these ear symptoms along with jaw pain, difficulty opening your mouth wide, or clicking sounds when moving your jaw, it’s more likely to be TMJ-related.

Associated TMJ Symptoms

In addition to ear-related symptoms, TMJ disorders often present with other signs:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Facial pain, especially around the cheeks
• Headaches, particularly in the temples
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Difficulty or pain when chewing
• Jaw locking or limited jaw movement

How long do TMJ symptoms typically last? The duration can vary greatly. Some people experience temporary discomfort that resolves on its own, while others may have chronic symptoms that require ongoing management. If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or significantly impact your quality of life, it’s important to seek professional evaluation.

Diagnosis: Identifying TMJ as the Source of Ear Pain

Accurately diagnosing TMJ disorders, especially when they present primarily as ear pain, can be challenging. Healthcare professionals often need to rule out other potential causes of ear discomfort before concluding that TMJ is the culprit. What steps are involved in diagnosing TMJ-related ear pain?

Diagnostic Process

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, their duration, and any factors that worsen or alleviate them.
2. Physical examination: This includes checking your jaw’s range of motion, listening for jaw sounds, and palpating the jaw and surrounding muscles.
3. Ear examination: To rule out ear-specific issues like infections or blockages.
4. Dental evaluation: To check for signs of teeth grinding or misalignment.
5. Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to visualize the jaw joint and surrounding structures.

Are there specific tests for TMJ disorders? While there’s no single definitive test, healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools:

• TMJ arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine the inside of the joint
• Electromyography (EMG): Measures muscle activity around the jaw
• Sonography: Uses sound waves to create images of soft tissues

Why is a multidisciplinary approach often necessary? TMJ disorders can involve various systems, including the musculoskeletal, neurological, and dental. Collaboration between different specialists, such as dentists, otolaryngologists (ENT doctors), and neurologists, may be needed for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treatment Options: Alleviating TMJ-Related Ear Pain

Once TMJ is identified as the source of ear pain, various treatment options are available. The goal is to reduce pain, improve jaw function, and prevent further damage to the joint. What are the most effective treatments for TMJ-related ear discomfort?

Conservative Treatments

• Self-care measures: Applying heat or cold packs, practicing gentle jaw exercises, and maintaining good posture
• Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding hard foods, limiting jaw movements, and reducing stress
• Pain medications: Over-the-counter NSAIDs or prescribed pain relievers
• Muscle relaxants: To reduce tension in the jaw muscles
• Oral appliances: Night guards or splints to prevent teeth grinding and reduce pressure on the TMJ
• Physical therapy: Exercises and techniques to improve jaw mobility and strength

How effective are these conservative treatments? For many people, a combination of these approaches can significantly reduce symptoms. It’s important to be patient, as it may take several weeks to notice improvement.

Advanced Treatment Options

When conservative methods aren’t sufficient, more advanced treatments may be considered:

• Botox injections: To relax overactive jaw muscles
• Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation in the joint
• Arthrocentesis: A minimally invasive procedure to flush out the joint
• Arthroscopy: A surgical procedure to repair or reposition the disc or remove scar tissue
• Open joint surgery: Reserved for severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments

Is surgery always necessary for TMJ disorders? No, surgery is typically considered a last resort when other treatments have failed to provide relief. Most people with TMJ disorders can manage their symptoms effectively with conservative approaches.

Prevention and Long-Term Management of TMJ Disorders

While not all cases of TMJ disorders can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage symptoms long-term. How can you protect your temporomandibular joint and minimize the chances of developing TMJ-related ear pain?

Preventive Measures

• Practice good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
• Avoid excessive gum chewing or nail-biting
• Use proper technique when yawning or opening your mouth wide
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling
• Wear a mouthguard during sports activities
• Address dental issues promptly, including misaligned teeth

What dietary changes can help prevent TMJ problems? Opt for softer foods that require less chewing, and cut hard foods into smaller pieces. Avoid excessively chewy or tough foods that put extra strain on your jaw.

Long-Term Management Strategies

For those with chronic TMJ disorders, long-term management is key to maintaining comfort and function:

• Regular dental check-ups to monitor jaw health
• Consistent use of prescribed oral appliances
• Ongoing physical therapy exercises
• Stress management techniques
• Periodic reassessment of treatment effectiveness

Can TMJ disorders be cured completely? While some cases resolve entirely with treatment, others may require ongoing management. The goal is to reduce symptoms to a manageable level and prevent further deterioration of the joint.

By understanding the connection between TMJ and ear pain, recognizing symptoms early, and implementing appropriate treatment and prevention strategies, many people can find relief from TMJ-related discomfort and improve their overall quality of life. Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent ear pain or jaw issues, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.

How TMJ And Ear Pain Are Related And Treated

Top Articles

More Articles

Published date field
Last Updated:

Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications

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.

Was this article helpful?

Like

Neutral

Thank you for submitting your feedback!

If you’d like a response, Contact Us.

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).

Now Offering: Virtual Couples Massage Workshops

Would you like to learn how to give great massages?

Book Your Private Couples Massage Workshop:

In this customized, interactive 90-minute workshop, Jana will demonstrate and teach a few professional massage techniques that will not only help to save hands, but will also provide you & your partner a therapeutic-based massage. Contraindications and Endangerment Sites will be taught. This workshop can be done in person or virtually. The work Jana teaches is done on the floor with pillows, so it can be performed anywhere. All participants will be clothed the entire time (gym attire is appropriate). You will also receive a PDF document that will contain all instructions and reminders so you can focus on being 100% present in the workshop. An intake form will be sent out after purchase of the workshop and must be completed and returned at least 72 hours prior to your workshop so Jana can help you and your partner get the most out of the course.

Additional Resources:

by Attune Massage Therapy | Oct, 2022

can i go to the er with tmj? TMJ disorder affects the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) and the muscles that surround it. The TMJ is located on both…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Sep, 2022

Managing TMJ Jaw pain: What are the dos and don’ts?The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull on either side of your. ..

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Aug, 2022

Can TMJ Cause Neck Pain?Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most prevalent reasons for jaw discomfort, popping sounds, and crepitus, all of…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Jul, 2022

Can TMJ Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes? Remember how you used to tell your mother as a child that you didn’t feel well and that you thought you were…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Jun, 2022

What Causes Head and Ear Pain on One Side?Earaches and headaches are common and can happen on both sides. They often come with other symptoms such…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Jun, 2022

Best Treatment for TMJ in Richmond, VAMillions of Americans all over the country, including Richmond, VA, are suffering from jaw pain and other…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | May, 2022

Best Ways to Sleep When You Suffer from TMJWe all open and close our mouths many times throughout the day because of talking, eating, chewing, and. ..

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Apr, 2022

How Do You Treat Jaw Pain and Swollen Lymph Nodes?Let’s Talk About Jaw Pain and Swollen Lymph Nodes. There are many factors to think about when we…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Oct, 2021

What are some ways to get rid of TMJ?How to get rid of TMJ symptoms and pain. Clients often ask, “How can I get rid of TMJ completely?” The answer…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Sep, 2021

Is there any way to cure TMJ naturally? Yes, there is a way to cure TMJ disorders naturally, without a doctor or dentist. In fact, TMJ symptoms have…

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Jul, 2021

HOW TO Relieve TMJ Jaw PainTemporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain does not last long for many people. In some cases, TMJ pain may go away on its own….

read more

by Attune Massage Therapy | Jun, 2021

HOW TO TREAT TMJ AND TMD Let’s start with the easiest treatment options. There are numerous TMJ and TMD treatment options available for TMJ…

read more

Causes of headaches and tinnitus

20
Oct
2017

20 Oct 2017 Causes, Causes and symptoms Headache, Buzzing in the ears, Ringing, Noise in the head, Noise in the ears 1

The main cause of numerous diseases that the population of the current century suffers from is associated with nervous strain. It appears due to the constant rumble around – from the increasing flow of vehicles on the roads.

Some create an artificial load: they listen to loud music, TV – all this has a complex negative effect on the state of the hearing organs.

Causes of pain in the head and tinnitus – this topic is of interest to a large number of patients who turn to specialists with this problem.

Article content:

• 1 Headache and noise – etiology
  • 1.1 Symptoms
  • 1. 2 Diagnosis
  • 1.3 Treatment
    • 1.3.1 Help b from professionals

Noise discomfort, manifesting itself, does not pose a danger. Most often it is a consequence of:

• Visits to noisy events, nightclubs.
• Staying at an active construction site for a long time.
• Travel by plane, train, sea transport.
• Long road behind the wheel.
• Sudden change in altitude (parachute jump, lift).
• Diving under water.
• Listening to music at high volume with headphones.

It is necessary to consult a doctor if, together with the noise, other symptoms make themselves felt, for example – headache . The main reasons that may contribute to its occurrence:

1. Sharp fluctuations in blood pressure – up or down. The result is a spasm of blood vessels that do not have time to rebuild, this causes pain.
2. Osteochondrosis of the neck. The vertebrae pathologically change their shape, which becomes unnatural and compresses the nerve endings, blood vessels.
3. Vegetovascular dystonia. Violation of the work of the autonomic nervous system leads to the fact that pressure surges occur, this causes vascular spasm. Most often, teenagers get sick.
4. Inflammatory process of the auditory nerve. The pain spreads to the temporal region, accompanied by ringing sensations in the ear – on the one hand.

1. Aneurysm of cerebral vessels. An abnormal formation that appears on the arteries of the brain. It is a section of a pathologically stretched vessel wall with a very thin wall. Gradually increases, early treatment will help to avoid rupture and dangerous hemorrhage.
2. Atherosclerotic changes. The plaques formed on the walls of the arteries narrow their lumen and do not allow the blood flow to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the brain, and then the noise phenomena are of an ischemic nature. Additionally, the noise is due to the appearance of turbulence when pushing blood through the constricted vessel. Causes of pain – oxygen starvation of neurons. Such disorders are most common after 60 years of age and in people with high cholesterol levels.

Symptoms

Symptoms that accompany headache and murmurs:

• Dizziness.
• Irritability.
• Pain in the neck.
• Nausea.
• Weakness.
• Decreased vision, hearing.
• Decrease, increase in temperature.

Diagnosis

Ear ringing accompanied by headaches , by itself cannot give a complete picture of the state of the organism. Therefore, a mandatory step will be a comprehensive diagnosis, which will help determine the nature of the disease, its severity, and the area of ​​​​distribution.

It also happens that a specialist examination is enough to find out the causes of pain. Often, diagnostic measures are limited to this.

Treatment

According to the identified problem, the attending physician prescribes procedures to eliminate the disease:

• Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, B-blockers, adaptogens – to normalize blood pressure.
• Surgical intervention – elimination of atherosclerotic pathology of the vessel, aneurysm.
• Therapeutic exercise, massage course – for osteochondrosis. An advanced case sometimes requires the replacement of intervertebral discs with implants.
• Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial therapy is necessary to relieve inflammation of the auditory nerve.
• Vegetovascular dystonia requires adjustment of the daily schedule, diet, special physical exercises, contrast shower.

The examination will include two approaches:

• Instrumental.
• Laboratory.

Diagnostic methods are prescribed by a doctor and consist of the following steps:

• Daily blood pressure control. The patient leads a normal life and at the same time wears a special device – a manometer. During the day, you need to write down what things were done – then they are correlated with the readings of the pressure level.
• Regardless of how pressure rises are recorded, the client of the clinic donates blood for a biochemical analysis. In the laboratory, the level of various biologically active substances is determined: this allows you to evaluate the activity of various organs and systems.
• Blood test for cholesterol.
• Angiography of the arteries located in the brain. This procedure reveals an aneurysm.
• CT and MRI help in determining the severity of osteochondrosis.

The patient will be required to follow the prescribed procedures as accurately as possible: only then is it possible to fully recover from the pathology and return to a normal lifestyle. The sooner you start treatment, the easier it will be to do it without consequences.

Help from professionals

Are you choosing which clinic to treat noise manifestations in the head, pain and other accompanying symptoms? Come to the Tinnitus Neuro Center. At your service:

• Highly professional specialists.
• Modern equipment.
• Unique techniques.

Thanks to effective approaches, you will definitely get a good result. Don’t delay your visit!

Was this article helpful?

Yes

You can subscribe to our newsletter and learn a lot of interesting things about tinnitus, how to fight and scientific advances:

Your e-mail

No

We’re sorry!

How can this article be improved?

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

Fungus

Allergy

Sulfur plug

Otitis

Adenoids

Hearing loss

Rhinitis

Tumor

336

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 caused0204 water in the ear, pressure drop during air travel or deep diving. Sometimes too strong and incorrect blowing 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 medicines (antibiotics, psychotropic substances) has a toxic effect on the ear, causing congestion and hearing loss.

Diseases that can cause ear congestion

Sulfur plug that clogs the ear canal. 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 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 auditory 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.

With furunculosis of the external auditory canal, the picture of the disease is aggravated by a 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 damage to 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.

RUB 2,290

Sign up

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.