Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Muffled Hearing In Both Ears?
Question: Hi Dr. Rynne,
For the past 4-6 weeks I have had muffled hearing in both ears. I have been treated with steroids (allergies) and anti-biotics (infection). The muffling is similar to when a person flies on a plane and your ears are trying to pop. I can get my ears to pop if I lay on my back, but as soon as I sit up they both are muffled. I also have ringing them as well. I have also had neck pain at the base of my skull. Could you please help me.
For the past 4-6 weeks I have had muffled hearing in both ears. I have been treated with steroids (allergies) and anti-biotics (infection). The muffling is similar to when a person flies on a plane and your ears are trying to pop. I can get my ears to pop if I lay on my back, but as soon as I sit up they both are muffled. I also have ringing them as well. I have also had neck pain at the base of my skull. Could you please help me.
Brief Answer:
eustachian tube dysfunction
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns.
You have recently been experiencing pressure and muffled sounds in your ears. This sounds like you have a eustachian tube dysfunction. This is the tube that equalizes pressure from you ear to your throat. It will occasionally get stuck and not allow for pressure release. You have seen your doctor and he is trying the proper medications. In addition to the above medications i would recommend using an nasal decongestant spray like afrin. This will help also reduce the pressure but use the afrin only for 1-3 days at the most. This may take some time to clear so be patient.
In summary
1. eustachian tube dysfunction
2. continue current medications
3. add afrin nasal spray
4. be patient
I hope this answers your question. Please contact us again with any further questions.
eustachian tube dysfunction
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns.
You have recently been experiencing pressure and muffled sounds in your ears. This sounds like you have a eustachian tube dysfunction. This is the tube that equalizes pressure from you ear to your throat. It will occasionally get stuck and not allow for pressure release. You have seen your doctor and he is trying the proper medications. In addition to the above medications i would recommend using an nasal decongestant spray like afrin. This will help also reduce the pressure but use the afrin only for 1-3 days at the most. This may take some time to clear so be patient.
In summary
1. eustachian tube dysfunction
2. continue current medications
3. add afrin nasal spray
4. be patient
I hope this answers your question. Please contact us again with any further questions.
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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
