What Causes Air Moving In And Out Of My Right Ear While Breathing?

Posted on Wed, 1 Apr 2015

Question: I recently had open joint TMJ surgery. They performed a discectomy, emminectomy, and an abdominal fat graft. However, I can't seem to equalize the pressure in my ears bilaterally. I am also which is alarming to me experiencing air moving in and out of my right ear, almost like I am breathing through my ear. What could be the cause of this? It is very painful.

Answered by Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Seems to be eusthacian tube dysfunction

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I had gone through your question and understand your concerns that you are having discomfort in ear.

Based on your clinical details, it appears to be eusthacian tube dysfunction or perforation in ear drum secondary to TMJ ( temparo mandibular joint ) surgery.

It is quite common to have eusthacian tube dysfunction post operatively for certain extent.

I suggest you to to consult ent surgeon and get otoscopy (status of ear drum - retracted/perforated), audiometry ( status of eusthacian tube, any hearing loss). depending on the examination reports further treatment is required accordingly.

Mean time, protect your ears (plug it with dry cotton during bath to prevent ear infection), do valsalva exercises (watch YouTube video), chew chewing gum, instill xylometazoline nasal drops 3 drops/3 time(over the counter). do steam inhalation.

Hope this answers your question, if you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Wishing you good health.

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. Shanthi.E