How does TMJ cause ear pressure and fullness. What are the most effective treatments for TMJ-related ear fullness. Can TMJ cause crackling sounds in the ears. How to alleviate crunching sounds in the ear caused by TMJ.

Understanding TMJ and Its Impact on Ear Health

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Due to its proximity to the ear, TMJ issues can often lead to various ear-related symptoms, including pressure, fullness, and unusual sounds. This intricate connection between jaw and ear health necessitates a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.

The TMJ-Ear Connection Explained

The temporomandibular joint is located just in front of the ear, making it easy for dysfunction in this area to impact ear sensations. When the TMJ is not functioning properly, it can cause a range of symptoms that extend beyond jaw pain and into the ear region.

• Muscle tension from TMJ can affect the inner ear muscles
• Chronic teeth grinding can lead to ear pressure changes
• TMJ issues may cause Eustachian tube narrowing

Common Ear Symptoms Associated with TMJ Disorders

Individuals with TMJ disorders often report various ear-related symptoms that can be confusing and concerning. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Crackling and Popping Sounds in the Ear

One of the most common complaints among TMJ sufferers is unusual sounds in the ear. These sounds can manifest as crackling, popping, or even a grating sensation.

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears? Yes, TMJ disorder can indeed cause a crackling sound in the ears, a phenomenon known as crepitus. This occurs when damaged tissues in the temporomandibular joint rub against each other, producing audible sounds that can be heard in the ear canal.

Fullness and Pressure Sensations

Many individuals with TMJ disorders experience a feeling of fullness or pressure in their ears. This sensation can be similar to the ear pressure experienced during altitude changes, such as when flying in an airplane.

Why does TMJ cause ear fullness? TMJ-related ear fullness can occur due to several factors:

1. Tension in jaw muscles can trigger tension in the inner ear muscles
2. Chronic teeth clenching or grinding can cause muscle spasms affecting the Eustachian tube
3. Changes in jaw position can alter inner ear pressure

Diagnosing TMJ-Related Ear Issues

Proper diagnosis of TMJ-related ear symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. Since these symptoms can mimic other ear conditions, a thorough examination by a specialized dentist or healthcare provider is essential.

Key Diagnostic Indicators

Healthcare professionals look for specific signs when diagnosing TMJ-related ear issues:

• Muffled hearing in conjunction with jaw pain
• Ear pain that worsens with jaw movement
• Changes in hearing associated with TMJ symptoms
• Itching deep in the ear without apparent cause

Is it difficult to diagnose TMJ-related ear fullness? In some cases, TMJ-related ear symptoms can be challenging to diagnose, especially when they occur without obvious jaw pain. This is why it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in TMJ disorders for a comprehensive evaluation.

Effective Treatments for TMJ-Related Ear Fullness

Treating TMJ-related ear fullness requires addressing the underlying TMJ disorder. Various treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall jaw and ear health.

Orthotic Appliances

Orthotic appliances, such as mouth guards or splints, are often used to decompress the temporomandibular joint and improve its function. These devices can help restore proper ear function and alleviate symptoms of fullness or pressure.

How do orthotic appliances help with TMJ-related ear fullness? Orthotic appliances work by:

• Repositioning the jaw to reduce pressure on the TMJ
• Relaxing tense jaw muscles that may be affecting ear function
• Preventing nighttime teeth grinding that can exacerbate symptoms

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Physical therapy and targeted exercises can play a crucial role in managing TMJ disorders and related ear symptoms. These treatments focus on improving jaw mobility, reducing muscle tension, and promoting overall joint health.

What types of exercises can help with TMJ-related ear issues?

• Gentle jaw stretches to improve flexibility
• Strengthening exercises for jaw muscles
• Posture correction to reduce strain on the TMJ
• Relaxation techniques to alleviate muscle tension

Advanced Treatment Options for Persistent Symptoms

For cases where conservative treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, more advanced options may be considered. These treatments aim to address persistent TMJ issues and related ear symptoms.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

TENS therapy uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate nerves and muscles around the TMJ. This treatment can help reset muscle memory and find the optimal resting position for the jaw.

How does TENS therapy help with TMJ-related ear fullness? TENS therapy works by:

• Relaxing tense jaw muscles that may be affecting ear pressure
• Improving blood circulation in the TMJ area
• Reducing pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorders
• Helping to reset the jaw’s natural position

Minimally Invasive Procedures

In some cases, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended to address persistent TMJ issues and related ear symptoms. These procedures can include arthrocentesis or arthroscopy, which aim to reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

When are minimally invasive procedures considered for TMJ-related ear fullness? These procedures may be recommended when:

• Conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief
• There is significant joint damage or displacement
• Persistent inflammation is affecting both TMJ and ear function

Lifestyle Modifications to Support TMJ and Ear Health

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve TMJ symptoms and related ear issues. These modifications can help reduce stress on the jaw joint and promote overall oral health.

Dietary Adjustments

Making changes to your diet can help reduce strain on the TMJ and alleviate related symptoms. Consider the following dietary adjustments:

• Opt for softer foods that require less chewing
• Cut food into smaller pieces to reduce jaw strain
• Avoid chewy or tough foods that can exacerbate TMJ issues
• Limit caffeine intake, which can increase muscle tension

Stress Management Techniques

Stress can contribute to teeth grinding and jaw clenching, which can worsen TMJ symptoms and ear fullness. Implementing stress management techniques can be beneficial:

• Practice regular meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Engage in yoga or other relaxation activities
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to address stress-related habits
• Ensure adequate sleep to reduce overall stress levels

When to Seek Professional Help for TMJ-Related Ear Issues

While some cases of TMJ-related ear fullness may improve with home care and lifestyle changes, it’s important to know when to seek professional help. Recognizing the signs that indicate a need for medical intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and ensure timely treatment.

Key Indicators for Professional Consultation

Consider seeking professional help if you experience:

• Persistent ear fullness or pressure that doesn’t improve with self-care
• Chronic jaw pain or difficulty opening and closing your mouth
• Frequent headaches or neck pain associated with jaw issues
• Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together
• Ongoing crackling or popping sounds in your ears

How can a TMJ specialist help with ear fullness? A TMJ specialist can:

1. Provide a comprehensive evaluation of your jaw and ear symptoms
2. Offer advanced diagnostic techniques to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms
3. Develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs
4. Recommend and administer appropriate therapies and interventions
5. Monitor your progress and adjust treatments as necessary

By understanding the connection between TMJ disorders and ear health, recognizing symptoms, and exploring various treatment options, individuals suffering from TMJ-related ear fullness can find relief and improve their quality of life. Whether through conservative treatments, advanced therapies, or lifestyle modifications, there are numerous approaches to managing this complex condition. Remember, early intervention and professional guidance are key to achieving the best outcomes in treating TMJ-related ear issues.

How Do You Treat TMJ Fullness in the Ears?

Home » How Do You Treat TMJ Fullness in the Ears?

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Do you have a crackling sound in your ear due to TMJ?! Call our dedicated team today at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders or visit us online to book an appointment. We have convenient locations across the U.S. in Bloomington IL, Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX and Wausau WI.

Table of Contents:

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears?
How do I get rid of the crunching sound in my ear?
How do you treat TMJ fullness in the ears?

Crepitus is a sound or vibration that occurs when tissues in the body, such as cartilage in the joints, are damaged and rub against one another. One of the most common causes of crepitus is dysfunction of the TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ disorder occurs when the various parts in the temporomandibular joint become misaligned; this can cause the bone to rub on bone or cartilage. This rubbing can damage cartilage, causing it to develop into crepitus.

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears?

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause a crackling sound to occur in the ears; this is known as crepitus. In addition to a crackling or popping sound, crepitus also refers to a grating sensation produced by the friction of bone rubbing against cartilage. Crackling in the ears does not only occur from TMJ disorder, it can also be the result of ear wax that has dried on the eardrum. When the dried wax expands, it cracks, which is audible in the ear canal as a crackling, crunching or popping sound.

How do I get rid of the crunching sound in my ear?

When a crunching or crackling sound is audible in the ears, it is likely caused by dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. In order to address this concern, the underlying cause of the crunching sound must first be taken care of. The best way to find the most effective treatment is by visiting a dentist who specializes in treating temporomandibular joint disorders. The dentist may utilize any one of several different modalities, including oral splints and mouth guards, or they may even prescribe physical therapy to help stretch the jaw muscles and relieve tension on the temporomandibular joint. Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises can improve TMJ health, reducing symptoms.

How do you treat TMJ fullness in the ears?

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is positioned just in front of the ear; dysfunction with this joint can therefore easily impact how the ears feel. Several TMJ-related causes can cause stuffiness of the ear; tension in some of the jaw muscles can actually trigger tension in the stapedius muscle, the muscle of the inner ear. When this occurs, the eardrum tenses and can give a sense of stuffiness or diminished hearing. Chronic clenching or grinding of the teeth can trigger these types of spasms; the more frequently teeth clenching or grinding occurs, the more severe the ear symptoms will be. Other jaw muscles can also spasm from chronic clenching, causing the Eustachian tube to narrow or close. This affects inner ear pressure and can muffle hearing, similar to how ears pop when descending in an airplane.

In hard-to-diagnose cases that involve muffled hearing, ear pain, hearing changes or itching deep in the ear, it is likely that a chronic TMJ condition exists. In the treatment of TMJ disorder, using orthotic appliances to decompress the joint can restore ear function and improve hearing. Orthotic appliances are different from other techniques such as bite adjustment and bite equilibration as they use orthopedic medicine to improve jaw function.

In some cases, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) may be used; this technique confuses the muscle memory to find the optimal resting position of the jaw. This can effectively ameliorate ear fullness when caused by the temporomandibular joint disorder.

If you are experiencing fullness in your ears, trust the team at Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders to provide you with relief.

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TMJ and Ear Pain – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

How To Stop Grinding Your Teeth: Tips & Techniques

By manager
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02 Mar, 2023

Teeth grinding is the most common cause of jaw pain. Grinding your teeth also results in fractured teeth and the destruction of dental work, which can even change how you look. People who grind their teeth during the day can make conscious changes to reduce their teeth grinding for those who grind their teeth at night . Fortunately, with a visit to Dr. Phillips, you can discover how to stop grinding your teeth. What is Teeth Grinding, and What Causes it? Grinding or clenching your teeth, or bruxism , is a common condition affecting millions of people and, if left untreated, can lead to broader health issues. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a 2020 ADA Health Policy Institute report stated that half of the dentists saw a rise in clients with stress-related dental problems, primarily due to teeth grinding and jaw clenching. It can happen during the day or night and often goes unnoticed until the person is alerted by a partner or family member. Treating bruxism can prevent further damage to the teeth and relieve any symptoms associated with the condition, and there are several steps you can take to stop grinding your teeth and protect your oral health. People grind and clench their teeth for various reasons, including stress and anxiety, misalignment of the teeth and jaw, or an abnormal bite. In adults, teeth grinding is often caused by emotional tension and stress and can become a subconscious habit. In children, teeth grinding is usually due to an immature bite and can be triggered by new teeth erupting or the recent placement of braces. How Do You Know if You’re Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth? Grinding or clenching your teeth can be challenging to identify since it usually happens when you are unconscious or sleeping. However, several signs could indicate you are grinding your teeth. Common symptoms of teeth grinding include: Waking up with a sore jaw Frequent headaches Increased sensitivity or pain in your teeth Tired or tight jaw muscles Pain that feels like an earache, but there is nothing wrong with your ear A locked jaw that is difficult to open or close completely Neck or face pain Noticing that your teeth feel different or worn down You or your sleep partner may also notice that you make clenching or grinding sounds during the night. At a dental appointment, your dentist may suspect teeth grinding if you have the following: Teeth that are chipped, loose, flattened, or fractured Worn enamel on your teeth Gum recession Possible Causes of Teeth Grinding Many people grind their teeth and tighten their jaws without realizing it, especially at night. Although stress and anxiety can lead to teeth grinding, other common causes are: Posture. Poor posture is not only horrible for your back; it’s also bad for your teeth. When the body’s joints aren’t in proper alignment, it can result in jaw clenching and grinding. Misaligned teeth. If the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly, the misalignment may result in the tendency to grind teeth or clench jaw muscles. Sleep disorders. Sleep habits and sleep disorders can lead to teeth grinding at night. Chronic obstructive sleep disorder , also known as sleep apnea , is a known cause of sleep bruxism. Resolving sleep apnea can help stop teeth grinding. Sleep terrors and insomnia may also result in grinding teeth at night. Joint disorders. The temporomandibular region is around the jaw, mouth, and ears. This area contains the temporomandibular joints and jaw muscles, which allow the jaw to open and close. Disorders in this area can affect teeth grinding and a sore jaw. Stimulants. Stimulants like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can trigger teeth grinding. Avoiding these can help prevent teeth grinding. Stress. Stress is a common cause of teeth grinding and clenching. Finding ways to manage and reduce stress can help decrease teeth grinding. These can include relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, deep breathing, meditation, and guided imagery can help relax the jaw muscles and stop teeth grinding. Chewing on Objects. Chewing on objects such as pencils or fingernails can trigger teeth grinding. You may also need to avoid chewing gum, which can exacerbate teeth grinding. Finding out how to stop grinding teeth at night takes getting to the root cause of grinding. Discovering the cause provides clues, pointing to the appropriate solutions. Prevent teeth grinding during the day. It is crucial to identify triggers that cause teeth grinding if you intend to stop grinding them during the day. Pay attention to your habits during the day and see if you notice when and if your grinding or clenching is worse. A TMJ specialist or dentist specializing in bruxism can provide you with exercises or relaxation techniques you can do throughout the day if you notice yourself clenching and, in some cases, offer medical treatment like muscle relaxants or Botox for bruxism. Prevent teeth grinding and clenching at night/in your sleep. You’ll have to make changes during the day to stop grinding or clenching your teeth at night or in your sleep. Start by talking to your dentist or doctor to determine if you have underlying medical issues that could be causing the grinding. Additionally, your dentist may suggest you wear a mouthguard, splint, or other oral appliance. At the same time, you sleep to protect your teeth from further damage and keep your mouth in the proper alignment, helping your TMJ to relax. A custom-fitted mouthguard also helps lessen the impact of teeth grinding by covering the teeth to create a physical barrier that reduces damage. How To Stop Child/Baby Grinding Teeth Many children grind their teeth at night, but most grow out of it. If your child or baby grinds their teeth, the first thing to do is identify what might be causing the behavior. Stress, anxiety, or an underlying medical condition can cause your child to grind their teeth. If the grinding is stress-related, identifying and addressing the source of the stress, such as an overly demanding school schedule or peer pressure, may help. If a medical or dental condition causes the grinding, your child’s dentist or doctor can help you determine the best action. If the grinding results from a habit, it can help redirect your child’s attention when they start to grind and provide them with other activities that may help reduce their stress and anxiety. Side Effects of Teeth Grinding Grinding your teeth may seem like a harmless habit. After all, it’s easier to notice this behavior if you’re not on the lookout for it. And unless your significant other or family members complain about the noise from your nighttime teeth grinding, it’s difficult to find proof of the act. However, long-term grinding of teeth at night can lead to significant side effects like: Pain in the jaw. The pressure and movement from teeth can lead to tenderness in the muscles, causing jaw pain . For some people, the pain may become chronic and severe. Headaches. The constant back-and-forth movement and clenching can impact the muscles around the neck and head, resulting in headaches due to muscle fatigue and tension. Wearing down teeth. Like sandpaper eventually smooths a surface, the repetitive motion from teeth grinding can flatten teeth and wear the enamel down over time. Teeth grinding can change the appearance of your teeth, causing them to look shorter and making chewing more difficult. Damage or fractured teeth. Grinding can destabilize teeth, making them shift and feel wobbly. The force from grinding may also crack teeth, causing pain and affecting oral health. Misalignment and cracked teeth can result in gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss — leading to poor overall health. Chronic ear pain. The temporomandibular area is closely connected. If the muscles around the ear become affected due to teeth grinding, chronic ear pain may occur. Facial muscle changes. Most people need to be aware that teeth grinding can change the shape of your face. Long-term bruxism can cause shorter teeth. Shorter teeth, in turn, change the structure of the face and jaw — leading to a sunken appearance. In addition, other muscles around the face can enlarge to compensate for dental changes. If you’re concerned about your appearance, you may want to note that chronic teeth grinding can change the way you look. Remedies for Teeth Grinding The methods for how to stop teeth grinding at night versus teeth grinding when you are awake are typically the same. Although some treatments aren’t quite possible when you’re asleep, their benefits can last even after you’ve gone to bed. Reductive coronoplasty. Reductive coronoplasty directly involves changing or leveling the biting surface of teeth. This procedure reshapes crowded or crooked teeth, improving teeth alignment. Conversely, additive coronoplasty can add to the surface of teeth to help treat bruxism. Dental Appliances: Mouthguards, night guards, and splints. A mouthguard does just that — it guards teeth. Typically used for sports, a mouth guard keeps teeth from injuries sustained during activity. A night guard protects teeth from grinding at night. Lastly, a bit splint guides jaw movement, enabling the jaw to land in the appropriate position. These appliances protect teeth differently, and finding the right one for your situation is essential. Biofeedback. Biofeedback allows a person to train themselves by monitoring auditory and visual stimuli from the body. Although biofeedback needs a person to be alert, the technique can still help sleep bruxism by reducing overall stress. Stress reduction techniques. Though implementing stress reduction techniques such as yoga, exercise, and meditation requires a person to be awake, they can also help with nighttime teeth grinding. Allowing muscles to decompress and relieve tension alleviates stress-induced teeth grinding, even at night. Tongue and jaw muscle exercises. Most people don’t stop to think about it, but their faces and mouth are a team of tissue, muscles, bones, and joints that closely affect each other. The tongue, for example, affects how the jaw moves. You reduce teeth grinding by exercising the right muscles — like the tongue and jaw. Behavior changes. Behavioral modifications like changing your posture and avoiding environments that cause stress can reduce instances of teeth grinding. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help change behavior and thought patterns that lead to teeth grinding. Medications. A doctor can prescribe medication to help treat bruxism if all other treatments don’t work. When used for short periods, muscle relaxants can relieve tension in the temporomandibular area. In severe cases of teeth grinding, botox injections can alleviate muscle tension. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications assist in decreasing anxiety, allowing jaw muscles to relax and reduce bruxism. How Can a TMJ Specialist Help with Teeth Grinding and Clenching? A TMJ specialist is a dentist board-certified in orofacial pain and conditions affecting the TMJ. TMJ specialists have extensive knowledge and experience regarding the structure, function, and pathology of TMJ. In addition to more thorough diagnostic evaluations, they can often provide more effective and long-term solutions for teeth grinding than your doctor or dentist alone. This is because TMJ specialists use a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on the underlying causes of the teeth grinding, such as stress, anxiety, or misaligned teeth, rather than just treating the symptoms. They often work with other medical experts like dentists or sleep physicians for more comprehensive care and treatment. Protecting Your Oral Health Protecting your teeth is critical to taking care of your overall health. Chronic teeth grinding can result in costly dental work, poor oral health, and chronic pain. If you’re experiencing a sore jaw, headaches, or cracked teeth, seeking an expert diagnosis to find the cause is the first step to finding a solution. Get the answers you need on how to stop grinding your teeth at night or keep from grinding in the daytime to protect your oral health. As a TMJ and sleep apnea dentist, Dr. Katherine Phillips specializes in diagnosing and treating bruxism. With her Master of Science in Orofacial Pain From USC and extensive experience in TMJ therapy, Dr. Phillips utilizes proven and effective evidence-based medical interventions to identify bruxism and help find the right treatments to suit your needs. Get in touch today for more information.

Feeling of fullness and pressure in the ears: causes and remedies

Hearing loss in itself causes a lot of trouble in everyday life. But what if the common cold, with its typical symptoms of nasal discharge, stuffy ears, and sinus pressure, also complicates the situation?

The ear, throat and nose make up a single system, so the violation of the functions of any one of its elements without fail affects everything as a whole

The Eustachian tube is a continuation of the nasopharynx. This connecting canal with the middle ear plays an important role in the regulation of intra-ear pressure. It expands when we sneeze, swallow, or chew, which reduces excess pressure and is a natural barrier for fluid to accumulate behind the eardrum. With obstruction or blockage of the Eustachian tube, hearing acuity may deteriorate, and the sound may become muffled. What can cause partial occlusion of the Eustachian tube?

• Allergy.
• Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses (paranasal sinuses).
• Colds.

These pathological conditions, characterized by copious secretion of mucus, which can block the Eustachian tube, which in turn causes a feeling of fullness in the ears

Dysfunction of the Eustachian tube can also be caused by climb and fall in altitude when traveling by plane.

Paranasal sinus problems

As noted above, the paranasal sinuses, ears and nasopharynx are interconnected, and if a problem occurs somewhere in one place, then everything else is involved in the pathological process. For example, swelling of the paranasal sinuses usually leads to stuffy ears and increased pressure in the middle ear. Typical causes of swelling of the paranasal sinuses:

• Allergy.
• Viral infections.
• Tobacco smoke and other environmental irritants.

To relieve the condition, you can use:

• Nasal decongestants (in other words, vasoconstrictor drops and sprays).
• Washing the nasal cavity with saline solutions.
• Humidifiers (dry air is an irritant).
• Aromatherapy . For example, inhalations or baths with a few drops of eucalyptus oil can be used.
• Drinking plenty of water (a glass of water every two hours during the day).
• Herbal teas , vegetable juices .

Fluid in the ears

Fluid may accumulate behind the eardrum as a result of impaired drainage of the auditory canal. This is manifested by:

• Ringing in the ears.
• Feeling stuffy.
• Increased intra-ear pressure.
• Impaired hearing and the ability to maintain body balance in space.

Causes – colds, viral and bacterial infections, allergies, and barotrauma.

It is very important to pinpoint the cause of the impaired drainage function, otherwise the fluid will continue to accumulate, which can cause severe pain or even rupture of the eardrum

Here are some ways to remove fluid from the ear canal: head to the side.

Wax plug

It is formed due to excessive production and accumulation of earwax in the eardrum area and manifests itself:

• Hearing impairment.
• Vertigo.
• Pain.
• Sensation of fullness and pressure in the ears.
• Tinnitus.

Do not use cotton swabs to clean your ears, as this can make matters worse by pushing the wax even deeper

The safest way to get rid of wax buildup is to flush the ear canal with water (necessarily warm) or saline solution for several minutes. The liquid will soften the earwax, and the cork will come out by itself. It is best to entrust this process to a specialist.

Allergies

Allergies can also cause stuffy and pressure in the ears. Antihistamines in the form of tablets, capsules, syrups will help relieve symptoms associated with allergies.

Note that some antihistamines have a sedative effect and are realized from pharmacies according to the doctor

Air Travels

During take -off and landing, rapid change in atmospheric pressure causes an imbalance between air pressure in the environment and in the middle ear. . The result is the stuffy ear syndrome in an airplane, familiar to anyone who has ever traveled by air. To prevent or mitigate its consequences, among which, in addition to congestion, it is necessary to note the pain in the ears, try to implement the following recommendations:

• During takeoff and descent, chew gum or candy to activate the muscles responsible for dilating and constricting the Eustachian tube.
• Apply the Valsalva maneuver – pinch your mouth and nose and exhale forcefully. This will help equalize the pressure in the sinuses and in the environment.
• Use ear tips.
• For nasal congestion, use a vasoconstrictor nasal spray.

Middle and outer ear infections

Inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media) causes a range of symptoms, including:

• Hearing loss.
• Vertigo.
• Pain in the ears.

This disease is usually viral in nature

Inflammation of the outer ear (often referred to as “swimmer’s ear”) is most often caused by water entering the ear canal, for example, while taking a bath or swimming. A warm, humid environment is the optimal condition for the multiplication of various bacteria, and, as a result, inflammation.

In most cases, ear infections go away on their own and do not require a visit to the doctor: pharmacies today have a sufficient range of over-the-counter ear drops and pain medications that can be used as part of self-treatment.

If your condition does not improve, contact your doctor immediately!

As you can see, you can feel pressure in your ears for various reasons, so it is very important to determine exactly what caused you to feel discomfort. In most cases, the problem is solved without a visit to the doctor, but if the symptoms persist for two or more weeks, medical attention is needed.

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 ears 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 suppurative 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 in 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 feeling 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 tight hat is pulled over your head, pressure in the ears, noisy throbbing in the head.

Purulent otitis

Otitis most often appears as a complication of sinusitis, sinusitis, 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.

Typically, complex therapy includes:

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

Treatment varies depending on the cause of the illness, 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 in order 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 treatment at an early stage 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 the disease affecting 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 treatment, 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.

Diagnosis

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).