When you think about seasonal allergies, symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose probably come to mind. But did you know allergies can also have a direct effect on your ear health?
At West Newton Hering Center in West Newton, MA, we often see patients who are surprised to learn that their allergy symptoms are linked to ear discomfort, hearing changes, and even balance issues. Understanding how allergies impact your ears can help you take better care of your overall ear health—especially during peak allergy seasons.
Read More: How Often Should You Get A Hearing Exam
How Allergies Affect the Ears
Seasonal allergies trigger your body’s immune response, causing the release of histamines that lead to inflammation. This inflammation doesn’t just affect your sinuses—it can also impact your ears, particularly the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of your throat.
When the Eustachian tube becomes swollen or blocked due to allergies, it can cause a range of ear-related symptoms, such as:
- Ear fullness or pressure
- Muffled hearing or temporary hearing loss
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Dizziness or balance problems
These symptoms can be frustrating and sometimes mimic other ear conditions, making it important to get an accurate diagnosis from a hearing care professional.
Long-Term Effects on Ear Health
Most allergy-related ear symptoms are temporary and go away once the allergic reaction is under control. However, if left untreated, chronic allergies can lead to long-term issues that may impact your ear health. Repeated Eustachian tube dysfunction or fluid buildup in the middle ear can increase the risk of ear infections and long-term hearing problems.
If you already have mild hearing loss, allergies may temporarily make it worse, highlighting the importance of regular hearing checkups.
Tips to Protect Your Ear Health During Allergy Season
Here are a few simple ways to support your ear health during allergy season:
- Manage allergies effectively: Use doctor-recommended antihistamines or decongestants to reduce inflammation and congestion.
- Avoid allergy triggers: Stay indoors on high pollen days, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers to improve indoor air quality.
- Maintain good ear hygiene: Avoid inserting cotton swabs or objects into your ears, especially if your ears feel blocked or full.
- Get your hearing checked: If you notice changes in your hearing, schedule an evaluation with an audiologist.
When to See a Hearing Specialist
If allergy season has brought on symptoms like persistent ear pressure, hearing loss, or tinnitus, it’s important not to ignore them. These could be signs of a more serious issue or a result of untreated Eustachian tube dysfunction.
At West Newton Hering Center in West Newton, MA, our experienced team can assess your hearing, identify the cause of your symptoms, and recommend personalized solutions to support your ear health.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don’t let seasonal allergies interfere with your hearing and comfort. Take control of your ear health with help from the professionals at West Newton Hering Center. Contact us today to schedule a hearing evaluation and get expert care tailored to your needs.