Spring Allergies or Hearing Loss?

Springtime often brings about allergies, with symptoms including sore throat, itchy eyes, and runny nose. But are you aware that seasonal allergies may also affect your ears? The symptoms may include pressure, tinnitus, itching, dizziness--and even hearing loss. The hearing loss may only be temporary, but such an occurrence can certainly be frightening. So, how do you tell if your hearing loss is associated with allergies or, instead, a more serious condition?

Allergies and hearing loss

A form of conductive hearing loss is from allergies. The transmission of sound is hindered during its travel from the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. How is this so? If allergies cause a reaction on the skin like swelling or itching on the outer ear or in the ear canal, it can keep you from hearing normally. Fluid can also build up in your inner ear, blocking your Eustachian tube--just like when you get congested from a cold. Your ears will feel clogged or full, causing some amount of hearing loss. Your hearing can be further impaired with a fluid buildup, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria. An ear infection may result.

The inner ear is less likely to be affected by allergies. However, if the inner ear is infected, it can cause symptoms like pressure, tinnitus, and dizziness. Also, one of the potential triggers for Meniere’s disease is allergies, even though the specific cause of it is unknown. It focuses on the inner ear, causing an allergic reaction, and can increase the chance of hearing loss.

Hearing loss shouldn’t be ignored

​Hearing loss is a serious issue. Don’t just brush it off; it affects your overall health and well being. If your hearing seems unclear all of the time; have it checked. Waiting around could make it worse. For a hearing checkup, consult your hearing instrument specialist at Pure Sound Hearing Aids.

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