How Allergies Can Cause Ear Infections
Middle ear infections are often viral. They usually start when someone has a viral infection that may initially cause a cold.
But ear infections may also occur when allergies cause congestion and inflammation in the nasal passageways, sinuses, and Eustachian tubes. This can occur regardless of the type of allergies an individual has, including food allergies.
If you have frequent allergies or ear infections, you can begin by discussing your symptoms with your family healthcare provider. You might need to have allergy tests and/or get a referral to an allergist/immunologist or an otolaryngologist , a doctor who specializes in disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.
Ear Infection Doctor Discussion Guide
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Itchy Ears Treatment How To Stop And Ear Drops For Itchy Ears
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While looking at each of the causes, we covered something on itchy ear treatment that is specific to the cause. Most of these treatments will either deal with the cause or relieve itchy ears.
Common ways to treat, relieve, heal or cure for itchy ears include antibiotic ointments , baby oil , tropical anti-inflammatory especially steroids such as 0.1% percent bethamethasone cream and 1% hydrocortisone cream, swimmers ear eardrops, hydrogen peroxide, dilute rubbing alcohol solution, acetic acid, antihistamines, antifungal drops, etc.
When your itching ears come with fever and pus or blood drainage, a doctor might recommend oral antibiotics as an additional treatment for itchy ears. Other ways to stop itchy inside ear or provide ear itchiness relieve include:
- Problems such as inadequate lubrication by earwax, too much water in ears, and presence of foreign particles that often cause broken skin in ear can be fixed easily by a doctor.
- When caused by allergic reactions, avoid allergens and use antihistamines
- Avoid using any ointment or ear drops for itchy ears before you consult your physician since some of these products can cause inflammation and worsen the situation
- Avoid use of any ear drops if your eardrums are damaged.
- Cotton ball or ear plugs should be worn during bubble shower or bath to reduce amount of moisture getting into your ear.
- Do not use headphones, earplugs or hearing aids if your ear is already infected.
How Allergies Cause Ear Pain
When a person is near something they are allergic to, the allergen binds to their allergic antibodies that are bound to mast cells or basophils. This process results in the release of histamines. Histamines are compounds that play a role in the bodys immune response. They trigger an inflammatory response.
Nasal allergies, specifically, are to blame when it comes to ear pain. This is because the inflammation that occurs in the mucous membranes that line the nasal and ear cavities can cause a blockage in the ear. When fluid cannot drain away because of that blockage, it builds up and causes pressure and pain.
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Long Term Complications Caused By Ear Infections
Chronic and untreated ear infections can lead to permanent damage in the form of the following:
- Hearing Loss: Permanent damage to your eardrum or other areas of the middle ear can lead to permanent hearing loss.
- Speech Problems: This problem is especially critical to avoid in young children. Toddlers that experience hearing loss due to ear infections can have trouble with learning how to talk which can make it difficult for them to socialize.
- Acute infection: An infection that doesnt go away can spread to more areas and cause more damage to tissue and bone leading to life-threatening emergencies.
- Ruptured Eardrum: Tearing of the tissue that separates the ear canal from the middle ear can happen after prolonged infection.
Causes Of Ear Congestion
- Common Cold. A viral infection of the nose is the most common cause. The nasal congestion also blocks the ear tube . The ear tube normally keeps air in the middle ear.
- Ear Infection. Middle ear pus can also cause muffled hearing on that side. This commonly happens with an ear infection.
- Middle Ear Fluid.Fluid may remain in the middle ear after the infection is cleared up. It can last for months. The main symptoms are popping and crackling noises in the ear.
- Blowing the Nose. Blowing too hard can force secretions into the ear tube.
- Allergic Rhinitis. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollens. It causes nasal congestion, clear drainage and sneezing. It also can block the ear tube and back up secretions in the ear.
- Airplane Ear. If the ear tube is blocked, sudden increases in air pressure can cause the eardrum to stretch. The main symptom is ear pain. Sometimes, it just causes congestion. It usually starts when coming down for a landing. It can also occur during mountain driving.
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Should You Have Your Tonsils Removed
These days, its not as common for tonsils to be removed. Removal will only be considered if there are frequent bouts of pustular tonsillitis that require antibioticssay, five or more attacks in one year, says Dr. Morrison, especially if the infections dont get better with treatment or theyre getting in the way of daily activities. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, who will ultimately make the final decision regarding surgery.
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Itchy Ear Canal Itchy Inner Ear Or Itchy Ears Inside Confusion
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For the context of this discuss, itchy inner ears, itchy inside ears and itch ear canal have been taken to mean the inner part of the outer ear or simply the ear canal. This therefore means that all except otitis media can be responsible for itchy ears.
We did not discuss the causes of itchiness on inner ear i.e. cochlea, semicircular canals or oval window but rather those of the outer ear . I hope this clarifies and clears the confusion on inner ear itch you might have.
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Allergies Can Cause Ear Pain
While earaches arent necessarily the most common symptom of an allergic reaction which is why you may not suspect allergies as the cause it can happen. This is because the membrane lining the Eustachian tube can become swollen and inflamed, and this inflammation can lead to an imbalance in the pressure of the ears. The result is fluid buildup and a blocked ear.
Itching Ears Due To Psoriasis
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This is a skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales patches can be itchy or sore. If it affects your ears, you can end up with itching ears. There is not cure for psoriasis but it can be managed by tropical products such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, phototherapy or systemic treatments when it is severe.
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When To See A Doctor For Treatment
If youre suffering from other allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes and a stuffy nose, over-the-counter medication may help your ears as well. Antihistamines can reduce the inflammation caused by the allergy, while decongestants will help with a clogged nose and ears. Because ear pressure can be a symptom of many other problems, its advisable to see a doctor if the pressure doesnt go away or becomes painful. Continued pressure can lead to hearing loss.
Also, if your allergy symptoms include ringing in the ears or vertigo , a visit to a hearing care provider is in order.
As many as 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children reportedly suffer from some type of allergy. Because allergies can cause temporary and in some rare cases permanent hearing loss, its important to know how allergies impact hearing and to address any problems early on.
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The Effects Of Allergies On Your Ears Nose And Throat
How Allergies Affect your Ears, Nose, and Throat
An allergy involves a reaction by your immune system, often to harmless substances. Allergy symptoms can make miserable and put you at risk for life-threatening reactions. An Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor can help you manage your allergies. West Coast ENT, which has offices in Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA, offers treatments for allergies. Read on to find out how allergies can affect your ears, nose, and throat.
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How Ear Wax Candles Help You To Treat Blocked Ears
Do you know that other ear wax remover can be used to unclog your ears other than the normal ear drops? Well, there are moments when you will find your ears blocking due to external factors or wax buildup in the ears.
Ear blockage usually may make you lose your balance, experience pain and the most important it will affect your hearing. Ear clogging will not only occur on you, but it can affect children as well. Your kids are the ones more likely to suffer clogged ears. Ear clogging can be treated by using ear infection organic oil.
When you have clogged ears, you are likely to have these signs:
- More buildup of earwax
- A benign growth in your ear
- Sinus colds, infections or even allergies
- a ringing sound from your ears
- feeling dizzy when you stand up abruptly
How Allergies Affect Your Ears Nose And Throat
EarsNoseThroat
The best way to avoid your symptoms is to avoid what causes your allergies in the first place. With help from our Hagerstown, MD ENT doctor, you can successfully control and alleviate your allergy symptoms. Dr. Kirby Scott will perform various tests in order to come to a proper diagnosis, allowing you to breathe easily once again.
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Are There Home Remedies To Help With Blocked Ears
Often holding your nose and mouth closed and blowing until you feel your ears pop helps to equalise the pressure in your middle ear, relieving the symptoms of a blocked ear. However, you need to be careful not to blow too hard and damage the delicate structures in your ear, such as the eardrum. As your blocked ear is caused by hayfever, this procedure is likely to only bring temporary relief.
Another home remedy is to inhale steam, The steam may help to thin and loosen the mucus, which then may be released. A hot steamy shower, sauna or humidifier will work in the same way.
Eating hot foods or spicy foods , often helps to soften the mucus that is blocking your ears, and will also help with any congestion of the nasal cavities.
Although not exactly a remedy, it is important to keep your head up, as bending over with your head down increases the pressure inside your ear, worsening the feelings of congestion.
Allergies And Hearing Loss
The immune system responds to allergies by producing antibodies that release the compound histamine. Histamine causes itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose essentially, hay fever. This excess mucus production can obstruct the Eustachian tube, which is the drainage passage for the middle ear. The middle ear amplifies and transfers sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. Therefore, any inflammation or blockage in this area can interfere with your sense of hearing and/or cause an ear infection.
Dr. Julie Prutsman, the owner and founder of Sound Relief Hearing Center, describes the relationship between allergies and hearing loss in the following way: Oftentimes allergic patients complain of a slight hearing loss and a sense of fullness or pressure. Usually, a hearing test will show some hearing loss, and a tympanogram will reveal reduced mobility of the tympanic membrane. That means the middle ear has some fluid or inflammation that may need to be addressed with medication.
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Are There Conventional Medicines To Help Me
Initially, a doctor or pharmacist is likely to recommend anti-histamines to help to ease all symptoms of seasonal allergies and a nasal decongestant to help clear the Eustachian tubes. However, if your earache persists, they may check for signs of infection. If this is the case, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or drops.
Ear Pressure Causes And Treatments
Keith Alexander, MD is board-certified in Otolaryngology. He provides services in adult and pediatric ear, nose and throat disorders, and treats allergy and sinus patients of all ages. He specializes in functional and cosmetic nasal surgery, including rhinoplasty. Dr. Alexander can be reached at 278-1114.
Lexington Clinic is Central Kentuckys largest and oldest medical group. With 180+ providers in more than 30 specialties, we have been taking care of 600,000+ visits annually in the Lexington community since 1920.
1221 South Broadway
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What Is An Allergic Reaction
Your immune system is responsible for defending your body from invaders like viruses and bacteria, but sometimes it mistake a harmless substance for something dangerous and attacks. The result is an allergic reaction.
During a reaction, the immune system releases antibodies that send a message to cells to release a chemical called histamine. Histamine prompts the blood vessels to expand and causes other symptoms you know so well, such as:
- Sneezing
- Itchy, runny or stuffy nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Coughing, wheezing and tight chest
- Rash, hives and swelling
- Itchy or painful ears
How Do Allergies Cause Ear Infections In Dogs
Allergies cause the skin barrier to break down and increase the wax production in the ear canal. This allows the low number of normal yeast and bacteria on the skin and in the ear to overproduce and allow more severe strains of bacteria to thrive. This leads to increased inflammation, pain, and discharge from the ear.
Dogs with seasonal allergies tend to get ear infections around the same season each year. Dogs with food allergies or non-seasonal environmental allergies may have ear infections recurring throughout the year.
Since dogs with allergic otitis will have repeated ear infections, this chronic inflammation can cause the ear canal tissue to scar, become calcified, and reduce the opening of the ear canals. This makes treatment even harder as the medication has a hard time reaching the deeper ear canal regions.
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Why Do I Have Itchy Ear Lobe
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If you have itchy ear lobes, the common cause could be problems relating to piercing, earlobe skin irritation and dryness. Allergies to nickel used in earrings and other metals can cause ear lobe itchiness.
Furthermore, infections including ring worms, contact dermatitis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, bug bites especially from head lice, psoriasis, etc. can cause ear lobe irritation, itchiness, rash such as small red bumps, scaling, swelling, etc.
What Can You Do
Avoid foods high in histamine this includes milk-based products, foods with artificial colourings, cashew nuts, walnuts and smoked meats. These are likely to increase the severity of allergic rhinitis symptoms such as congestion and inflammation.
Drink lots of water its always important to stay hydrated but especially if youre suffering from allergic rhinitis. Thats because water can loosen and thin mucus which can, in turn, help ease congestion and relieve pressure build-up in the ears.
Give your immune system a helping hand when busy fighting off allergens left, right and centre, the immune system has to work a lot harder than would normally be the case so it may need a little more assistance. Echinaforce Echinacea Drops are perfect for this as they help to strengthen and support the immune system. Also, uniquely, they are made from fresh Echinacea so that they do not lose any of their beneficial properties as can be the case with some dried varieties.
Have a warm bath or shower â steam contains moisture and heat which thins mucus and therefore reduces congestion. So, having lots of warm showers and baths is a simple step to take in order to improve your allergic rhinitis symptoms.
Opt for foods low in histamine this includes fresh fruit, meat and vegetables.
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Allergies And Your Throat
Your throat is responsible for many functions from eating and drinking to talking and breathing, so its important to pay attention to any changes in your throat health.
Treating Allergic Laryngitis
Laryngitis is an inflammation of your voice box that occurs when your vocal cords are overused or infected, causing voice loss or voice distortion . While laryngitis can be a sign of a more serious condition, like the flu, it can also occur when one inhales an allergen, like dust or pollen.
While these home remedies may not alleviate your symptoms entirely, they may be able to help until your visit with one of our Center for Allergy and Asthma specialists:
- Resting your voice for several hours to a few days.
- Taking allergy medication as prescribed.
- Gargling with salt water 2-3 times a day.
- Breathing in the steam from a hot shower or boiling pot.
Allergies and Postnasal Drip
Your body is always producing mucus, even when you dont realize it. Mucus is responsible for keeping your throat moist so that you can talk, breathe, and eat throughout the day. But what happens if your body starts making too much mucus? This is what we refer to as postnasal drip.
From allergies to a cold or sinus infection, postnasal drip can be caused by a number of ailments. And while postnasal drip typically isnt cause for concern, it can be annoying to deal with. If postnasal drip has you feeling congested, consider:
An Introduction To Earache And Seasonal Allergies
Earache is not the most common symptom of seasonal allergies and is usually an indication of sinus congestion or an ear infection. Earache can also occur when the membrane lining of the Eustachian tube in the middle ear becomes inflamed as it reacts to pollen. This can cause an imbalance in pressure in the ear resulting in feelings of blocked ears.
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