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What Causes A Fullness Sensation In Ear While Swallowing?

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Posted on Tue, 4 Aug 2015
Question: Hi.I have a sensation of fullness in my ear and when I swallow, move my jaw or move my eyebrow up and down I get crackling in my ear. The ent specialists here see no inflammation in my ears. Originally I was prescribed spray for allergic rhinitis but that did nothing after two weeks. I had everything checked again and the doctors see nothing in my nose or eard yet the problem doesn't go away despite nasal decongestant sprays and suduafed. Now I have to go on a flight and very anxious.
What do you think the issue is please?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Classical of eustachian tube dysfunctions..

Detailed Answer:
Well, fullness in the ear and crackling in the ear are classically symptoms experienced due to ear pressure changes. It occurs commonly due to eustachian tube dysfunction.

Clinically most often we do find other noticeable signs upon good ear, nose and throat examination. But if there are no obvious features we rely on hearing tests to arrive at the diagnosis. Therefore in my opinion, I think you should now consider visiting an ENT surgeon where you can get hearing tests done. You might also need X-rays of sinuses before treatment is initiated.

Until then please continue sudafed and steam inhalation.

It is not good idea to continue nasal decongestants beyond 5 days. Instead I prefer to use fluticasone nasal spray provided there is no fever. Discuss with your treating doctor and plan ENT consult.

Hope this helped. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Regards
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Prasad J

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2005

Answered : 3701 Questions

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What Causes A Fullness Sensation In Ear While Swallowing?

Brief Answer: Classical of eustachian tube dysfunctions.. Detailed Answer: Well, fullness in the ear and crackling in the ear are classically symptoms experienced due to ear pressure changes. It occurs commonly due to eustachian tube dysfunction. Clinically most often we do find other noticeable signs upon good ear, nose and throat examination. But if there are no obvious features we rely on hearing tests to arrive at the diagnosis. Therefore in my opinion, I think you should now consider visiting an ENT surgeon where you can get hearing tests done. You might also need X-rays of sinuses before treatment is initiated. Until then please continue sudafed and steam inhalation. It is not good idea to continue nasal decongestants beyond 5 days. Instead I prefer to use fluticasone nasal spray provided there is no fever. Discuss with your treating doctor and plan ENT consult. Hope this helped. Let me know if you need clarifications. Regards