Depending on where you live, all year can be allergy season. Allergies can range from minor to severe and can be caused by everything from pet dander to pollen. Runny nose and itchy eyes are the symptoms people are most familiar with and can be the first indication that you’re experiencing allergies.
However, some will experience enhanced symptoms such as loss of hearing, bad balance, and tinnitus. These symptoms are a side effect of increased pressure in your inner and middle ear.
Why is Your Hearing Impacted by Allergies?
When your body detects an environmental allergen it responds by releasing a chemical called histamine. The common runny nose and itchy eyes are the outcomes of this release. Fluid accumulation in the inner ear is a less common symptom. The fluid stops the allergen from getting deeper into your ear canal. The resulting pressure can cause problems with your equilibrium leading to a blocked ear, difficulty hearing, and balance issues.
Treatment For Hearing Loss Caused by Allergies
There are lots of ways to deal with the symptoms of allergies. Over-the-counter medications such as Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra are normally the first solution. Minor cases can be successfully managed within a couple of days and initial relief typically starts after the first dose. These products are also safe for extended long term use if need be. Others, like Benadryl, Sudafed, and Afrin, can be used temporarily for relief, but are not advised for long term use because they can result in unwanted side effects.
You can also combine over-the-counter medications with natural treatments or the natural options can in some cases even be used by themselves. Saline solutions or a Neti pot are some examples. A vapor tablet, in some situations, when used in a hot shower can be really helpful as well. Environmental changes, such as regularly washing fabrics in hot water, using a damp cloth to reduce dust on surfaces, and running an air purifier can also significantly help. If you have pets and have a problem with pet dander, make sure you give your pets a bath frequently.
Already Tried All That?
For some individuals over-the-counter and natural remedies won’t be sufficient. When none of these approaches help over the course of a few weeks professional assistance may be required. To figure out if you need an allergy shot, you will need to go see an allergist. Every week for around six months a shot will be given in increasing dosages then the shots will be reduced to once a month. Small amounts of the allergen will be released into your system letting your body progressively learn how to deal with it. This approach does require a long-term commitment of up to five years, although, patients often feel relief starting at about eight months.
If you still have pressure in your ears and none of these strategies help, it’s time to get a hearing test.