Sinus Issues: Experiencing Hearing Loss After a Sinus Infection

There is nothing quite as annoying as having to deal with blocked sinuses. Usually, a sinus infection or blockage is a result of allergies or a cold and it can be a very painful experience. What many people don’t realize is that sinus problems can affect your ears and in turn, your hearing. That’s because sinus congestion, more often than not, results in a swollen Eustachian tube, the inner ear’s ‘pressure gauge.’ All of that stuffiness is the cause of the pressure and pain since your ears and sinuses are interconnected. And, at times, with a sinus infection, hearing loss occurs.

The Link Between Sinus Infection And Hearing Loss

Since the ear canal is so close to the sinuses, Eustachian tube blockage can result in sinus congestion. Between your throat and your inner ear, there is a little section that acts as a pressure gauge to maintain optimal ear pressure. However, when that part becomes swollen due to inflammation, fluid collects in that area and that produces painful eardrum pressure. Because of this, you may experience hearing loss after a sinus infection, though it is usually temporary and clears up after fluids leave the Eustachian tube.

What Can Happen If I Don’t Seek Help?

If left untreated, an ear infection may cause permanent damage to the middle ear, resulting in rupturing or bleeding in the eardrum. But, if you treat a sinus infection before it spreads to the Eustachian tube and eardrum, you can curb hearing disruptions or sinus-related ear concerns.

It is essential to seek medical intervention before your sinuses become infected or if you have constant stuffiness and pressure problems to offset the chance of a possible infection setting in. As usual, when in doubt, an Otolaryngologist can help clear up these type of worrisome health concerns. 

For more information regarding sinus infections and hearing loss, Contact Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates Today!  Dr. Steven Richards clinic is in northwest Oklahoma City, his clinic telephone number is 405.755.1930.  Calling Dr. Richards is a great start to feeling better.